MIDDLETON, Wis. — Tri 4 Schools, a nonprofit organization based in Verona, will hold its annual Middleton Kids Triathlon for children ages 3–14 on the morning of Saturday, August 21. The race starts at Bauman Aquatic Center at 2400 Park Lawn Place and finishes at Firemen’s’ Park on 7400 Lee Street.

“It’s pretty amazing to see [the event] in action,” said Katie Brasel, Race and Volunteers Director of Tri 4 Schools. “We offer four different course lengths, and anyone can participate at whatever level they’re ready for. They can choose how they want to challenge themselves. It’s really inspiring to see them achieve their goals, whether that’s to finish, participate or win a trophy.”

Each course consists of a swim, and bike and a run. As a participant crosses the finish line, their name is announced. “They get a medal. We try to make it very fun, supportive environment, with lots of celebration.”

Participants can sign up from any school. “We donate proceeds back to the individual participants’ schools to help with their health and wellness initiative,” said Katie. Registration fees vary; consult the Tri 4 Schools website at tri4schools.org for early bird rates and other details.

2020 was “supposed to be our 10th year anniversary for Middleton. So this year we finally get to have it. That makes it extra special,” said Katie. “This event is also our return to a full triathlon.” Earlier events in 2021 didn’t have all three triathlon components.

For 2021, at-home course options are available for those who cannot or do not wish to attend in person. “Prior to 2020 all our events were in-person triathlons, and last year we pivoted. Athletes did the events with their parents, from the comfort of their own homes and neighborhoods,” said Katie, adding that they’re contemplating offering virtual participation as an ongoing option. “It’s been a nice option for people outside the area.”

Tricia Kleinsteiber, operations director for Tri 4 Schools, said that a group of roughly 20 athletes in Belgium participated in 2020. The effort was led by a Wisconsin family stationed in the military who had participated in the past. “They managed to get the school to participate. That was really hard, because the restrictions there were very strict at that time, but they were able to get special permission,” she said, and raised $400. “It was a little tricky to send, because of the different currencies.”

This year, she said, a family was able to participate despite a camping trip that would otherwise have scuttled their triathlon plans, “because we’re set up for virtual.”

As with all its events, Tri 4 Schools encourages any athletes that might need special accommodations. “We’ve had kiddos that have needed a helper with them, for instance,” said Katie. “We work with the family to see what is needed.” Contact Tri 4 Schools to work out an individualized program that best fits with your child’s specific needs.

Katie has worked with Tri 4 Schools since 2016. “What inspires me the most is seeing the determination on the kids’ faces as they complete their tasks. See how their efforts inspire the adults,” she said. “And seeing all of the kids cheer each other on.”

Visit tri4schools.org for registration and complete details. Tri 4 Schools’ other programs includes grants for large-scale, school-based initiatives and scholarships for athletes with financial need. Call 608-416-4051 or email [email protected] to learn more.

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