On a Bright and Lively Saturday Morning

On a bright and lively Saturday morning at Shanklin Park in Goshen, the air buzzed with the palpable excitement of young athletes and their supportive families. The Kerry’s Kids Annual Kids’ and Teen’s Triathlon, a cherished event sponsored by the Kerry Finnigan Rupright Foundation, made a triumphant return. After a rain check in 2023, the 2024 edition unfolded under mild skies, drawing an impressive crowd of around 250 eager participants.

The essence of this event lies not just in the competition but in its spirit of inclusivity and empowerment. Youngsters from various age groups took on the challenge of swimming, biking, and running, each according to their capability. Teens led the charge with a 75-meter swim, a 1.5-mile bike ride, and a 1.5-mile run, setting a vigorous pace for the younger ones who followed with scaled-down versions of the race.

Kim Stephens, a seasoned Goshen Parks employee and the event director, shared her enthusiasm, "I love seeing the kids cross the finish line, empowering them to know that they can accomplish such feats." This sentiment captures the core mission of Kerry’s Kids—to enhance the health, foundation, and quality of life for our community’s children, providing them with practical tools and knowledge to live life to their fullest potential.

The event also honored the memory of Kerry Kathleen Rupright, who passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience through her children, James Michael and Zachary Thomas. Her parents, Rick and Marlene Finnigan, continue this legacy, presenting medals to each young athlete, symbolizing achievement and encouragement.

Among the participants was Luke Kaminer, a 15-year-old from Bristol, who has been a regular at Kerry’s Kids since he was five. "I practice around our house. We have a pool and road. I’ve been running and biking every day," Luke shared, his dedication evident. His efforts paid off as he clinched first place among 13-18-year-old males, a testament to his hard work and passion for the sport.

First-time participant Hadley Troyer, a 17-year-old from Middlebury, found the swim the most challenging, despite her strong background in track and cross country. "I don’t swim competitively. I came out to have fun and be competitive depending on who was racing," she said, reflecting the dual spirit of competition and enjoyment that Kerry’s Kids promotes.

The event wasn’t just about racing; it was about community and family. Siblings Jacob and Connor Szynal, first-timers from Goshen, shared their experiences. Connor, the 9-10 Male champion, found joy in swimming, "The swimming was the best part. I swim in the pool at home," he said, his face lighting up with the thrill of the race.

As the day wrapped up, each participant, whether they crossed the finish line first or last, was met with cheers and a medal—a symbol of their perseverance and spirit. Kerry’s Kids is more than just a triathlon; it’s a celebration of youth, vitality, and community spirit, encapsulating the essence of what it means to push limits and embrace life’s challenges with a smile.