RACING OPTIONS FOR YOUTH & JUNIOR TRIATHLETES


Written by Steve Kelley, USA Triathlon Athlete Development Coordinator, USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach, and USA Triathlon Youth and Junior Certified Coach


As any parent of a young triathlete will tell you, the biggest challenge is holding them back. Parents and coaches need to channel this youthful energy so that these athletes reach their full potential in the sport. Part of meeting that challenge is recognizing the appropriate racing options for teens. Here is a quick primer:


Youth vs. Junior – These terms are used to define age categories and, more specifically, age- appropriate racing distances. Although uses still vary in places, such as the “Youth Olympic Games” being for 16-and 17-year-olds, “Youth” events are


22 USA TRIATHLON YOUTH GUIDE


typically designed toward kids 15 or younger, while “Junior” events are intended for ages 16 to 19.


Youth Triathlons – Short events designed just for kids. The distances are appropriately short and the courses highly-monitored for safety. USA Triathlon’s Youth Competitive Rules establish standards for participation, equipment selection and fair play.


Junior Talent ID Races – In each of USA Triathlon’s 10 regions, our Regional Athlete Development Coordinators (RADCs) have identified races that are suitable for teenage athletes to get their start in the sport, meet other kids their age, and develop a passion for the multisport lifestyle. These races also assist the RADCs in identifying emerging talent. We leave it up to each individual


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