The Jewish Community Center of Greater Kansas City’s Youth Triathlon is for kids from age 4 to 17 and allows youth to compete in a fun setting with music and a medal for every participant.

The triathlon will take place at the Jewish Community Campus, 5801 W. 115th St., in Overland Park, Kansas, and the grounds of Aspiria, which adjoins the campus. The race is approved and certified by the US Triathlon Association. Check-in starts at 6:30 a.m., and the competition begins at 7:30 a.m.

“This is a favorite event of the community and such a great way for kids of all fitness levels to set a goal and accomplish it for the summer,” said Erika Aanestad, The J’s Youth Triathlon Coordinator. “It’s a confidence builder for the kids and very inspiring for the spectators.” 

The triathlon includes swimming, bicycle riding and running. The event is divided into three difficulty categories based on the age of the participant. The J and the Youth Triathlon are committed to accessibility and inclusion. Parents should let The J know in advance if their children have accommodation needs. 

Per USA Triathlon Rules, the race categories and distances are as follows.

SHORT COURSE (5-8-year-olds):
Swim 50 yards, bike 1.5 miles, run .6 mile

INTERMEDIATE (9-10-year-olds):

Swim 100 yards, bike 3 miles, run 1 mile

LONG COURSE (11-17-year-olds):
Swim 200 meters, bike 6 miles, run 2 miles

The mini course for ages 4 to 5 has its own unique course and is parent assisted.

All participants and their parents should attend a virtual pre-race orientation that will be available through The J’s website at thejkc.org/youthtri. They will receive rules and regulations, course information, and tips on various aspects of the event.

Participants must register through the website and will receive a goodie bag, t-shirt and race number prior to race day.

The J is also seeking volunteers for the triathlon. Volunteer positions from 5 to 10 a.m. include assisting with the bike and running courses, body marking, food or water distribution, parking, and awards and medals. Volunteers can sign up at thejkc.org/youthtri.

For more information on the youth triathlon, please contact Erika Aanestad at .