Team Training New England is collaborating with West Hartford’s Department of Leisure Services for the camp during the week of July 27-July 31, and the Kids Triathlon on Aug. 1, 2015.

Triathletes support other participants in the race. Submitted photo

By Ronni Newton

Kids looking to try out a new sport – or three new sports – can benefit from the expertise of Team Training New England professionals who will be working with West Hartford’s Department of Leisure Services to run this year’s kids triathlon camp and race.

The half-day camp, which is open to kids ages 6-14, will provide kids with tips on good eating and fitness habits as well as training in swimming, biking, and running skills needed to complete a triathlon. It’s a great option for all kids, including those who like to be active but haven’t yet found a sport that really fits their personality.

“I think it offers kids an alternative to some of the more traditional sports, a chance to experiment. It’s still a great group environment for the week. We have great counselors and games that help bring the team together,” said Team Training New England co-founder and co-owner Lynne Tapper.

Swim distances vary by age for the kids triathlon. Submitted photo

“A triathlon is a great way to improve your swimming, biking and running skills. Plus, we talk to them about how to take care of their body through good nutrition, hydration, and warming up. We also talk with the kids about bike safety and have a local bike shop owner come help inspect their bikes and helmets. But, most importantly, we focus on making the camp and the race fun, regardless of the child’s skill level or age,” Tapper said.

The camp will be held at Eisenhower Park in West Hartford, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., on July 27-July 31 and will culminate in the 6th Annual Kids Triathlon, which begins at 9 a.m. on Aug. 1.

Entry into the race is included in the camp fees ($160 for residents/$170 for non-residents), and the race is also open to others in the community. There is also a family relay option for the race.

Kids triathlon participants prepare for the bike portion of the race. Submitted photo

Distances for swimming, biking, and running vary depending on the age of the child, to ensure that they will have a positive and manageable experience, Tapper said.

It’s a positive experience for the parents, too, Tapper said. “For a lot of the parents it’s a blast to come out on Saturday morning and cheer their kid on as they complete their first triathlon.”

“It’s our sixth year running this camp and race with the town of West Hartford and we’re really proud of the experience the kids receive,” Tapper said.

For more information or to register click here.

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Campers forge bonds of friendship as they learn new sports as well as tips for healthy eating and fitness. Submitted photo