From STAFF REPORTS

ALBANY – The 14th Annual SuperKidz Triathlon returns at 8:30 a.m. on July 15 to the YMCA Sports Park at 4508 Gillionville Road in Albany. Girls and boys ages 4 to 14 swim, cycle and run age-appropriate distances in and around the park and pool while family, friends and community members cheer them on in this Southwest Georgia summer tradition.
“If you’re looking for a great way for your kids to be active and have fun this summer, the SuperKidz Triathlon is a great way to do it,” says Donnette Kline Lewis, SuperKidz Coordinator and Health and Wellness Director of the Albany Area YMCA. All skill levels are welcome at this event. Mini participants may use training wheels on their bicycles, and those unable to pass a swim test will be provided with U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation devices compliments of a safety grant from the Redwoods Group Foundation. Awards will be given for first, second and third place boys and girls in each age group. “This is a real triathlon,” emphasizes Lewis, with a smile. “When the children finish, the sense of accomplishment and pride is unmistakable. It’s true self-confidence they’re developing.”
For those wanting to prepare for the race, or simply have even more active fun, the YMCA is also offering a SuperKidz Training Camp at the YMCA Sports Park 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on July 10 through 14. Participants will be trained in all three triathlon events, working on transitions between events and running through the triathlon course. In addition, children will receive education in diabetes awareness and prevention. Children who participate in the camp receive an event t-shirt and entry to the triathlon. Camp is open to both YMCA members and non-members. Members receive a 30% discount off the tuition of $100.
Lewis believes the benefits from the camp and race reach far beyond athletics. “SuperKidz Triathlon and the SuperKidz Training Camp are some of the most exciting, enriching, active summer traditions we have for youth in our community,” says Lewis. “These events help to develop the whole child – mind, body, and spirit. That’s what the Y is all about.”
Lewis said this was the motivation behind adding a Summer Splash and Dash for ages 15 and up to this year’s events. Immediately following the children’s race, older teens and adults will have the opportunity to swim 750 meters and run 3 miles to compete for awards in the first ever biathlon offered at the Y. “July 15 is going to be a great way for people of all ages to experience Healthy Living in our community,” he added.