1. Will my child compete in an Ironman?
No, the distances for youth are designed to be age appropriate based on their physical and mental development.
2. What are the ages ranges of youth triathlons?
The age ranges for youth are 7-8, 9-10, 11-12 & 13-15. The reason for the three year span for 13-15 is to include all youth that are not old enough to race some adult races. The minimum age for some adult races is 16 years old.
3. What are the distances for youth races?
The USAT recommended distances for 7-10 year olds is 100 meter swim, 5K bike and a 1K run; for 11-15 year olds it is 200 meter swim, 10K bike and a 2K run. The race director has the flexibility to may the race longer or shorter.
4. Do I have to buy an expensive bike?
Not unless your child is competing at a high level of performance. Most races kids can use any bike that is in good mechanical condition.
5. What is a youth elite triathlete?
A youth elite triathlete is between the ages of 13-15 and competes in a longer distance race that is draft legal. This is the International Triathlon Union (ITU) standard of racing. This means that the triathlete will need to have very good bicycle handling skills.
6. Why use a Youth Coaching Expert?
Using a qualified coach specializing in youth and junior development can help ensure you are getting the most out of your child’s training program. Youth coaches observe the big picture, if your child is struggling with putting all the components of a triathlon together, performance during a race, comparing themselves to their peers or running out of energy during training or racing their lack of professional youth coaching may be part of the problem.
7. Should I have my child join a local triathlon club?
Clubs for young triathletes offer unique advantages. They provide a sense of camaraderie, training motivation and parental education. I cannot think of anything more beneficial for young athletes.
8. Will a youth triathlon club benefit me as a parent?
A club is also an excellent outlet for parents. If you are a parent that has little or no background in triathlon you will learn a lot through a good club.
