During the first Saturday of December, Peli got to be a guest of the Rotary Kids’ Triathlon at the Gifford Aquatic Center! This was the first ever kids’ triathlon event hosted in Indian River County. Peli learned that a triathlon consists of three timed events: swimming, biking, and distance running. Peli is better at flying than she is at any of those activities, so she decided she would cheer kids on from the sidelines rather than participate herself.
Most of the participants had never been in a triathlon before, and the children were so excited to have this opportunity not too far from home. Families outside of Indian River County were welcomed as well! The event was made possible under the direction of DRC Sports and many other generous sponsors from the community. Peli thought it was so awesome that participants who didn’t have their own bike were given a bike to take home after the event. She loves to see the community coming together to give children opportunities to be active outside! The triathlon was divided into a senior division consisting of ages 10-13, and a juniors’ division for children 6-9. In total, 200 children swam, biked, and ran their way through the course to earn their medals and celebrate their athleticism. Just like she does at every event she goes to, Peli enjoyed dancing with the families who attended.
Her favorite part was cheering on all the athletes as they crossed the finish line and getting to see the moment when all their training and perseverance pays off.
Peli will totally be looking forward to the next kids’ triathlon!