Owasso YMCA and Bailey Medical Center to Host
Strong Kids Triathlon August 16
OWASSO, OK – Nearly 34% of Oklahoma youth are overweight or obese, and obesity continues to increase in our state. Extra weight during the early years can lead to long-term health complications and have a negative impact on quality of life. While we know activity is key in staying healthy, many schools no longer require daily physical education and our growing use of computers, televisions, smart phones and tablets has created a sedentary nation.
On Saturday, August 16, the Owasso YMCA will partner with the Bailey Medical Center PLAY Program to host the 2nd annual Bailey Medical Center Strong Kids Triathlon. The triathlon has been specially designed for students ages 5 to 15 and event organizers hope it will inspire kids to participate in new activities and connect fun with fitness. Participants do not need to live or attend school in the Owasso area.
The triathlon will include a 100-yard swim at the Owasso YMCA followed be a two mile bike ride and one mile run. The transition area will open at 6:30 am and the first heat of swimmers will begin the event at 8:00 am. Participants should bring their own bicycle and helmet for the bike ride portion of the event.
The triathlon will conclude with an awards ceremony at the YMCA. All participants will receive a medal for participation and trophies will be awarded to the top finishers in each age group. And, participants and their supporters are invited to stay and enjoy the Owasso Family Fun Fair at Rayola Park after the event for kid-friendly activities, including bounce houses, live music, dance performances, crafts and more.
Participants are encouraged to pre-register online at www.bmckids.com or register at the Owasso YMCA. The cost to register before Thursday, August 14 is $30. On or after August 14, the registration price increases to $35. If you have more than one child participating, a $5 per child discount will be applied. The first 150 participants registered will receive a tech shirt with their registration fee and all remaining proceeds will benefit the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, which provides discounts to YMCA clubs, camps and programs for underprivileged youth.
“The Bailey Medical Center PLAY Program is proud to help the YMCA bring a kids’ triathlon to Owasso,” said David Steward, PLAY Program Director. “The goal of the PLAY Program is to offer parents and youth in our community with opportunities to participate in activities while learning how to create healthier families for a healthier community. Earlier this year, our team visited all Owasso elementary schools to discuss healthy eating habits and the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. The triathlon is a great way to introduce a fun and different experience for students in our area.”
Triathlon participants do not need to be members of the Owasso YMCA or residents of Owasso to participate. Parents are asked to attend a parent meeting at the YMCA on Friday, August 15 at 6:00 pm where they will also be able to pick up race packets.
To learn more, or to register, please visit www.bmckids.com or call the Owasso YMCA at 918-272-9622.
