This year marks the sixth edition of a special program for youngsters in Idaho Falls to gain a stronger interest in triathlons. I.F.'s Kids "Tri Harder" Triathlon is one of only three such youth-targeted events in the state. The idea to host this multifaceted competition makes sense, considering that triathlons are the fastest growing sport in U.S. and the second fastest growing sport in the world.
Of course, the main goal of this event is pretty simple--to have fun. According to organizers, there are no open water swims (all are in-door at the Wes Deist Aquatic Center) and lifeguards are present at all times. Participants can choose from four different lengths. Both kids and teen categories are offered.
The main triathlon is for kids ages 12 and under, and is separated into four divisions: Mini, Super, Mega and Extreme. The entire event will be completed at the Wes Deist Aquatic Center, where all participants will receive a T-shirt, goodie bag and an award for finishing.
For the Mini division, kids 6 and under will complete a 25-yard swim, bike once around the block of the WDAC and run once around the parking lot.
In the Super class, triathletes 9 and under will face a 50-yard swim, two laps around the block on a bike and two more around the parking lot on foot.
In the Mega group, competitors 12 and under will swim 100 yards, bike four times around the block and run four times around the parking lot.
The Extreme division for kids 13 and under features a 200-yard swim, four-mile bike ride and a one-mile run.
For the third year, the Tri Harder will offer a Teens Triathlon for competitors up to 17 years old. Challenges include an 800-yard swim, 8-mile bike ride and 2-mile run. New for 2012 will be teen teams, allowing participants to register as a team and have each person complete a leg.
This is way to introduce teenagers to a new sport.
Registrations must be received by Saturday, July 28. Any registrations after July 28 will be an extra $5 and a T-shirt will not be guaranteed.
For more information check out the parks and recreation section at www.idahofallsidaho.gov.
How to Register:
On-Line at www.activityreg.com
By Phone 612-8519 (with a valid credit card)
In Person @ at the Aquatic Center
149 7th Street—Idaho Falls
By the Numbers
80-100: Expected participants
3: Youth triathlons in Idaho (this one is the oldest)
2008: Year that triathlons became an official Olympic sport
1st & 2nd: Triathlons as the fastest growing sports in the U.S. and the world
2: Rank of Idaho for most active triathletes per capita
70: Percentage of youth triathletes who come from families who have never done a triathlon
4: Different lengths to choose from in the 2012 Tri Harder
0: Number of lanes in the pool this year
$20: Registration fee
