Dare to Tri LTHS triathlon

Lyons Township High School sophomores of all abilities recently participated in the annual Dare2Tri triathlon as part of their physical education class. The event consisted of a 150 meter swim, a 5 minute stationary bike ride, and a .67 mile run. Some students had a bit of help, either from a fellow student and/or an assistive device, which allowed them to participate just like their fellow classmates.

The event is the brainstorm of the LT Physical Welfare Department, who partnered with the Special Education Division and with Dare2Tri, a non-profit organization run out of the Chicago Park District whose mission is to positively encourage athletes with physical disabilities in developing their skills in para-triathlons.

Dare2Tri provides use and assistance with their adaptive equipment for students who may not be able to complete the running, biking and/or swimming portion of the triathlon. Each student was also matched with a “tri buddy,” a current sophomore, who completed the event by their side. Students work together to assist athletes in the pool, on specialized equipment, and completing the running portion of the triathlon.

Dare2Tri fit students for assistive devices. They discussed para-triathlons and its benefits, along with sharing their personal experiences in competing in para-triathlons.

The triathlon exposes students to the environment of physical activities outside of LT with the intent of encouraging life-long lifestyles of physical fitness.