Youth & Youth Elite
Youth participation represents one the fastest growing areas of the sport today and it is important to emphasis basic fundamentals and FUN. Competition is certainly a part of the sport but kids, parents, and coaches should focus on enjoyment, and learning proper skills and healthy exercise habits that will last a lifetime rather than winning and losing.
Each athlete, irregardless of experience or style of racing is highly encouraged to complete and maintain information on an Athlete Profile
The "Youth" age division is comprised of athletes age 15 and under, with racing age determined on December 31st of the competition year. Age categories are generally broken down into ages 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 13-15. Distances are short and intended simply to expose our youngest triathletes to basic elements of triathlon and give them a taste of the unique sense of accomplishment that comes with finishing a triathlon. |
Suggested Race Distances
for youth athletes: |
| Age Groups |
Swim Distance |
Bike Distance |
Run Distance |
| 7-8 |
100m |
5k |
1k |
| 9-10 |
100m |
5k |
1k |
| 11-12 |
200m |
10k |
2k |
| 13-15 |
200m |
10k |
2k |
|
Beginning at age 12, youth also have the opportunity to compete in draft-legal triathlons, called F1 or Youth Elite Cups. These super-sprint distance races mimic the ITU World Cup and Olympic format of racing. Youth Elites do not have to qualify for these events, but generally should have above-average swim skills, the ability to ride in a peloton, and a strong run.
More Questions?
Contact your Regional Athlete Development Coordinator (RADC) Shelly
Campbell.
Free Youth Finisher's Awards
USAT-SMW will provide Youth Finisher's Awards to race directors for their USAT
sanctioned event. Race directors can read about the details of this program
at the link below and should use the Request Form to order these awards well
in advance of the event date. Contact the Youth Coordinator (John Ricca - jbrtri@earthlink.net)
with any questions.
USAT SMW Youth Finishers Award Requirements
USAT SMW Youth Award Request Form
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