Middlesex YMCA Offers Free Triathlon Training for Kids

Chase Kowalski spent his life on the move. He became a triathlete and even ran his first race at the age of 3. Chase’s life was cut short during the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School. To honor his legacy, Chase’s parents, Rebecca and Steve Kowalski created The Chase Michael Anthony Kowalski Sandy Hook Memorial (CMAK) Foundation to offer children the opportunity to participate in activities in his name. One program sponsored by the CMAK Foundation is the Race 4 Chase. It is a free youth Triathlon Training Program that is taking place at the Middlesex YMCA’s Camp Ingersoll. The program provides youth with a fun, life-changing experience by giving them the skills to swim, bike and ride while gaining confidence and having fun!

Race 4 Chase is a free six-week program for children ages 6-12. Kids will come to Camp Ingersoll Monday-Friday from 9:00am – 12:30pm for 6 weeks. Previous experience swimming, running, or biking is not required. They will work with trained coaches to improve their running, biking, and swimming in an encouraging and positive environment. Children will grow in confidence by learning how to swim or bike while respecting each others’ differences by supporting and becoming friends with one another. Participants will also learn about healthy living, eating, and social skills. The culmination of the training program is a Youth Triathlon race at YMCA Camp Sloper in Southington, CT with 8 other participating YMCAs.

Buses are available at several Middletown stops to pick up children for the program. Parents must pick up children from the Middlesex YMCA or YMCA Camp Ingersoll in the afternoon.

Registration is for children ages 6-12. Applications can be found online here or at the Middlesex YMCA. They are due May 22nd.

Please contact Ben Silliman with any questions at bsilliman@midymca.org or (860) 343-6239.