LEWISBURG — More than 200 youths on Friday evening swam, biked and ran, and all were winners in the Winans’ Triathlon for Kids.
Prizes were not awarded. The children, ages 7 to 14, were instead commended for finishing.
“We found awarding prizes (based on finishes) detracted from our main focus of the event,” said Dr. Lawrence Winans, a Lewisburg dentist. “This way, every child who finishes receives a medal and everyone feels a sense of accomplishment.”
In the event, in its fourth year, children ages 7-9 swam 30 yards, biked three-quarters of a mile and ran one-third of a mile. Those ages 10-12 swam 50 yards, biked 1.5 miles and ran one mile. Those 13-14 swam 100 yards, biked 2.25 miles and ran 1.5 miles.
For the running and biking portions, races began and ended at the Lewisburg community pool building.
“We carefully designed it to maximize the safety for kids,” Winans said. “Everything (was) contained in the park.”
During a time when children are less active, events such as this give them “something to shoot for,” said Winans, who said they have been practicing all over Lewisburg.
“It’s a fun activity. You see the excitement from everyone who shows up,” he said. “It’s a good experience and I think that attitude really carries throughout.”
The Lewisburg Area Recreation Authority asks motorist to use caution this morning during an adult triathlon that has drawn nearly 400 participants. Select roads surrounding the park near the Lewisburg community pool will be closed for approximately two hours. Those roads include Airport Road from Route 192 to Campbell Mill. Delays can be expected on Route 192 in both directions. Local authorities will be on hand to manage traffic.
