The annual Town of Blackfalds Superkids Triathlon swam, biked and ran its way through through the community for the the third straight year.
Carol Simpson, guest services officer at the Abbey Centre, said the event has grown every year — with this year seeing 79 participants, which is up from 68 last year.
“The purpose is to have a fun, introductory triathlon. It is also an introduction for kids into multi-sport in a non-competitive, non-threatening environment,” she said.
Simpson said triathlon is an ideal sport for young athletes because the three different sports keeps things fresh.
“If you get tired doing one thing, pretty soon you switch to another thing. If you get tired of being on the bike — then you get to go for a run. That is what makes it unique,” she said.
Simpson credited the growth of the event to the uniqueness of the sport and the commitment of volunteers.
“Our participaction has grown each year. This year we were 99 per cent sold out of our race caps. We were so close, we have grown every year and we are really happy with that,” she said.
Simpson said the Abbey Centre is always trying to carry over the momentum of race day.
“We promote and have some lessons here that are always available during the summer months through the Abbey Centre. We also have different things throughout the year that we try to engage young people in,” she said.
Simpson wanted to thank the volunteers for helping making the race a success.
“Sometimes I don’t know who has more fun: The kids or the volunteers. They have definitely upped their costume game this year — there are some really fantastic costumes and we have a lot of returning people who have volunteered with us for the full three years. We also have some new people that we have welcomed this year,” she said.
She added, “I am super excited with the turnout and support and also that the weather held out for us.”
todd.vaughan@lacombeexpress.com
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