Buzzing with adrenaline and raring to go, young athletes made a splash at the third annual Rotary Kids Triathlon, held at the Victor Hart Sr. Community Enhancement Complex and Gifford Aquatic Center and hosted by the Rotary Club of Vero Beach.
Nerves were high, goggles were adjusted, and chin straps were clipped tight as children ages 6 to 13 swam, biked and ran their way to personal glory and the finish line.
Before the first splash, the event opened with a ceremony honoring both the nation and local legacy. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Presentation of Colors and National Anthem, the crowd quieted for an invocation led by Rev. Denny Hart, son of the late community leader Victor Hart Sr., namesake of the complex.
Looking out at the sea of eager faces, Hart offered an invocation that bridged the sorrow of loss with hope for the future, extending thanks for the opportunity to bring the young people and the community together.
Mike Kanuka, Kids Triathlon committee chair, said it is now the largest kids’ triathlon in the state of Florida, having grown exponentially since its inaugural year.
Commenting on its rapid expansion, Kanuka said it grew from a maxed-out roster of 200 participants in its first year to accommodating over 400 race-ready youngsters at this year’s sold-out event.
Kanuka said that it was the smoothest operation to date thanks to their partnerships with Indian River County, the Sheriff’s Office, which closed down 43rd Avenue for safety, the School District, and the lifeguards at the aquatic center.
“The cooperation and collaboration are the reasons why we’re as big as we are today. There’s no question,” Kanuka said.
In a move toward greater inclusivity, this year’s race featured an Adaptive Athlete Division in partnership with Treasure Coast Community Health and Sunshine Physical Therapy. Ten children with various physical or mental abilities participated, demonstrating that the sport was open to everyone.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, announcers walked the eager participants through the various rules including those of the transition area from the pool to the pavement, what he called the “fourth discipline” of a triathlon.
“I know you’re excited, you want to go fast,” the announcer cautioned, stressing the need to focus on safety during that transition.
Despite the cool morning air, the athletes, separated into groups by ages, tackled the courses with resolve, completing a 75-yard or 150-yard swim, a 1-mile or 2-mile bike ride along 43rd Avenue, and a run around the sports fields.
The event embodies the mission of the Rotary Club, which is celebrating its centennial in 2026, to support local youth and foster courage, confidence and community spirit.
For more information, visit RotaryOfVeroBeach.com.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
