Summer Road Races and Triathlons for Kids in Fairfield County

7/22/14 - By Susan Isaak

Every weekend, in cities and towns across Fairfield County, you’ll find kids competing in road races and triathlons. And why not? Racing is a great way to get outdoors and keep kids busy, focused and fit. A beautiful summer morning is even better when you spend it watching your child cross a finish line past a crowd of cheering people. Most races are tied to a charity, so in addition to fitness, you have the chance to help others while teaching your kids about the importance of raising money and awareness for a particular cause. Your child doesn't have to be a future track star, either. In most cases, the distances are short enough to hop right into a race without training, especially for the youngest kids. There are plenty of opportunities for more serious athletes to try longer distances, too. No matter what, nothing beats that smile of finishing something very challenging. Here's a list of races that you and the family can participate in this summer.

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Recently my daughter, Hannah, competed in her first triathlon. She loved the entire experience from checking in to having her race number drawn on her arms to crossing the finish line. She was pretty nervous when we got there, but the race organizers were upbeat and helpful and showed us what to do and where to set up her bike in the transition area. We watched the younger kids compete first, and it was great to see 4 year olds running out the Long Island Sound to hop on their bikes (some with training wheels). Then came Hannah's age division, and you could sense the kid's excitement as they lined up to the starting line in the water. They swam, biked and ran the course with the crowd cheering them on and when they crossed the finish line, the announcer called each kid's name over the loud speaker before they were handed a finisher's medal. There were definitely kids in this race who were very competitive, but there were also kids like Hannah who were in it to try something new and have a good time. Her race was pretty challenging but also lots of fun, which is all that really matters. She can't wait to do it again. I'm just happy she's keeping active since fall sports are right around the corner and these races are a great way to stay conditioned through the off season. Here are some of the upcoming late summer, kid-friendly road races and triathlons in Fairfield County.


Southwest Cafe Sunset 5k
Saturday, August 2, 2014
This 5k race through Ridgefield benefits Sunrise Cottage, a residence for people with disabilities. 

Southwest Cafe Sunset 5k, 109 Danbury Rd (Rt. 35), Ridgefield CT, 06877, 203-431-3398
 
Saturday, August 16, 2014
This race, which supports Mothers Against Drunk Driving, is held along a totally flat, scenic route with a kid's fun run, a 2 mile walk and a 5k run.
 
MADD Dash, Short Beach Park, Stratford CT, 06615
 
Friday, August 22, 2014
This popular race raises autism awareness and funds for special programs with a quarter mile kids fun run and 5k run/walk. 
 
All Out for Autism, New Balance Store, 128 Main Street, New Canaan CT, 06840
 
Saturday, August 23, 2014.
This race is part of the USA Triathlon Youth Splash and Dash Series. This is an "aquathlon" race, which means it's a swim/run combination, hosted by the incredibly well-organized folks at the Team Mossman Triathlon Club.
 
Park City Splash and Dash, Seaside Park, Bridgeport CT, 06601
 
Sunday, September 7, 2014
This is a fun, family friendly event with short distances and a flat course. It's ideal for kids and families who want to race together. Even better, they offer a "race rehearsal" 2 weeks prior to the main event where you can practice transitions and get race-day tips.
 
Westport Kiwanis Triathlon, Compo Beach, Westport CT, 06880, 203-255-8892
 
Sunday, September 21, 2014
This race is billed as a "colorful run to beat childhood cancer" because you will literally be splashed with color dust at four color stations throughout the race course. This untimed run/walk is great for families to do together.
 
Phoebe's Phriends Colorflash 5k, Sherwood Island State Park, Westport CT, 06880
 

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