Harrisonburg Youth TryAthlon 2026

The Harrisonburg Youth TryAthlon, an annual swim-bike-run event for children ages five to seventeen, takes place entirely within Westover Park in Harrisonburg. It is designed for young participants learning the experience of racing, rather than solely for those aiming for a podium finish. Organizer Erik Dart summarizes the event's philosophy as “completion over competition.” Registration is capped, and Harrisonburg Parks and Recreation anticipates 100 children will register. The event begins with a swim in Westover Pool, proceeds to a bike ride on a trail, and concludes with a run on a park trail. The distances vary by age group, ensuring that younger and older children do not complete the same course. Parents and other spectators offer encouragement as children finish. Dart notes that the event attracts families from outside Harrisonburg, in addition to local participants. He also points out the absence of similar events in the region, which contributes to the TryAthlon consistently filling its registration limit.