Under picture-perfect skies at Cramer Park, young athletes took on big challenges at Sunday’s Grand Finale Junior Triathlon, the final multi-sport event of the season hosted by the Junior Tri VI Committee.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from children ages 4 to 11, each testing their skills in the swim-bike-run format.
In the 5–6 age division, a small but determined field of two girls—Novalyn Ivey and Talia Simmonds—approached the start with a mix of excitement and hesitation. After completing the 25-meter swim, the pair raced to the transition area at the park entrance, quickly fastening helmets before heading out on the half-mile bike course. Riding evenly matched bikes equipped with training wheels, the competition remained tight through the ride. The race ultimately came down to the final quarter-mile run, where Ivey edged ahead to secure first place. Both girls celebrated their efforts with wide smiles on the finishers’ podium, proudly wearing their medals.
The 7–8 division featured increased distances, including a 50-meter swim and half-mile run. Hanako Sanders, a 2nd grade student at GHCDS, set the pace early, exiting the water with a 20-second lead. Bexley Ivey, who marked her birthday by moving into a new age group, held a steady second-place position during the bike segment, while Parker Hensel surged into third. The top three maintained their standings through the run to finish in that order. In the boys’ category, Reagan Payne and Tahir Simmonds claimed second and third, respectively, while Indigo Anderson impressed in her first-ever multi-sport race, finishing third among the girls.
Competition in the 9–11 boys’ division remained wide open until the final stages of the race. Each athlete showcased individual strengths, making for an exciting contest. Michael Kuczynski, a member of the Dolphins Swim Team, led out of the 100-meter swim, while Milo Bird took control during the one-mile bike segment. The decisive move came on the run, where Hiro Sanders surged ahead to claim the win. Arlo Zegarelli completed the podium in third. Caitlin Kuczynski, the lone female competitor in the division, delivered a strong performance to finish fourth overall against the boys.
A dedicated team of volunteers ensured the event ran smoothly, guiding athletes along the course and prioritizing safety at every turn. Support from community members—including adults and high school seniors—played a key role in creating a positive and encouraging environment for the young competitors. Organizers noted that while fun remains a central focus, safety is always the top priority, and both goals were successfully achieved.
With the season now entering a brief hiatus, Junior Tri VI athletes will have time to prepare for the next event, a splash-and-dash (swim/run) scheduled for November 18. Community members are encouraged to invite friends and help continue the growth of youth multi-sport participation in the territory.
For more information on upcoming events for youth and adults, visit the Virgin Islands Triathlon Federation page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/vitriathlon or contact info@vitf.org
