by Len Hill

This article is a continuation of the River Cities Triathlon preview in the July issue of Runner Triathlete News. For more details on the River Cities Triathlon, pick up a copy of the July issue of RTN.

The dog days of summer are fast approaching, if not already here. Too hot to fish, to hot to play ball. TV is always good. Maybe. Maybe if you don't have a life.

What's that you say, you're just a kid - what is there for you to do? Show up in Shreveport, Louisiana on Saturday, August 3rd, and you will see what there is to do. This is the day the IronFish Kids Triathlon makes its inaugural debut.

Race director Matt Brown and Sportspectrum decided to sponsor the youth triathlon in conjunction with the famous River Cities Triathlon, held the following day, Sunday, August 4th. Brown wanted to provide an opportunity for children to participate in something outdoors and open up the sport to the next generation of triathletes.

"Anything I can do to get those kids outside, to do something healthy as opposed to sitting behind the TV on a Saturday morning, I want to do that for them. I am all for it.", said Brown. "This is something different for the kids to do, something they have never experienced before."

The only qualifications the kids will need to enter will be to be between the ages of 7-14, have a bike and helmet, running shoes, and have desire. Floatation devices are allowed on the swim. Brown is confident that all children will succeed in this contest.

"When he (she) crosses that finish line, he is going to feel that he has accomplished something that he has never accomplished before. I think he will feel wonderful. I think he will have more energy than when he started.", stated Brown.

Like its big brother, River Cities, the IronFish kids' triathlon will be a festive occasion with a Hawaiian theme and plenty of food, music, and fun for all. Also like River Cities, a value laden sports package is given to all entrants.

Although it may be hot, and the inclination of many old and young alike is to head for shade and rest, children can teach their parents well. This will be a contest in which all competitors are winners, not only for finishing, but also for having the initiative to enter.