Elementary students ride, run, and swim in school-wide competition

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Adults complain about the amount of screen time kids have these days. They worry that children don’t spend enough time outdoors playing and exercising. And the statistics back up those fears. Less than 25 percent of American children get 60 minutes of physical activity each day.

At Western Schools, an effort was made this week to change these habits of inactivity. Elementary students across the board had the opportunity to compete in a youth triathlon, where kids ran, swam, and rode bicycles and scooters in a scaled-down version of the famous endurance race.

Administrators and volunteers worked to make the experience reflect what athletes go through in a triathlon. They received their own race bib and had their numbers written on their arms, helmets, and clothing in grease pencil. Refreshments of water and bananas were provided for quick bursts of energy and hydration.

And the crowd cheered on every racer, on the track and in the pool.

The response was rewarding for everyone involved. Smiles were affixed to the faces of the racers as they poured their energy and determination into the race. The parents and volunteers were raucous in their cheers and encouragement.

The top finishers received their earned recognition, but all the kids were rewarded with acknowledgement and celebration as they completed the race.

The Kokomo Lantern is proud to bring you photos from the youth triathlon, and we thank Western Schools for providing this opportunity for their school community. See additional photos from this event, courtesy of Goad Sports Media, on the Lantern’s Facebook page and group.