CHARLES TWEED/Ponoka News
There is going to be a lot of pasta eaten on June 18 as youths in Ponoka prepare for the first ever Ponoka Youth Triathlon on June 19.
The triathlon will be hosted by the Tri-Services and is designed to offer youths the opportunity to experience the sport of triathlon in a safe and positive environment while at the same time promoting fitness and activity in youngsters.
“It’s an opportunity to get youth involved in a healthy positive activity that allows them a chance to challenge themselves physically while having fun,” said Staff Sgt. Cameron Chisholm with the Ponoka RCMP. “There is going to be some serious competition but everyone who enters is a winner.”
The triathlon, which consists of three disciplines —swim, bike and run — will weave its way through the community beginning at the Aquaplex where the swim portion will take place.
From there, the kids will hit the first transition point outside of the Aquaplex where they will change out of their bathing suits and into their bike gear to begin the bike portion of the triathlon. The bike portion will head north along the Battle River towards the dog park before turning back south and returning to the transition area.
From there, the kids will trade in their bike helmets for runners and head south along the river before making the turn and heading back to the Aquaplex.
The distances in the Ponoka triathlon will be shorter than those in adult or professional triathlons but will still offer a challenge to kids aged six to 18.
The events will cost only $5 per entrant and will rely on volunteers from the community in order to be a success.
“We have seen a lot of enthusiasm and support from the community and anyone who wants to help out or volunteer can contact the Aquaplex,” said Chisholm.
Registration sheets are available on the town’s website at www.ponoka.org under the community tab.