Swim. Ride. Run. Have fun!

Children ages 5 to 14 can do that and more - while benefiting their schools' physical education programs and youth athletic programs in Castle Rock - at Tri the Rock on Sunday, May 18.

The Town of Castle Rock Parks and Recreation Department is presenting the third-annual youth triathlon, a USA Triathlon sanctioned event. Youth of all experience levels are welcome.

"Tri the Rock is great for kids to get out and try something that they may not get a chance to do very often. We offer a lot of different team sports through the Recreation Center, but this is something different," said Kristen Rodriguez, who's coordinating the race for the Town. "I have heard some great stories about kids participating in Tri the Rock and finding out that they really love triathlons or even just a portion, like bike racing. So the race opened the door to a whole new world of fitness and activity."

Eleven- through 14-year-olds will swim 100 meters, ride eight kilometers on their bikes and run two kilometers. Those ages 7 through 10 will swim 50 meters, ride four kilometers and run one kilometer. Five- and 6-year-olds will swim 25 meters, ride one kilometer and run 500 meters.

Registration is $30 until May 11 and $40 May 12-17 and includes a T-shirt, goodie bag and lunch. Children who are not USA Triathlon members must pay an additional $5 to become a member, a requirement for participation.

Ten dollars of each registration fee goes to the physical education program at the participant's school. The school with the most participants will receive a party for participating athletes at the Castle Rock Recreation Center's Leisure Pool and get to display the Tri the Rock trophy at their school until next year's race.

Bike racks open and race-day check-in begins at 6 a.m., and the race begins at 8 a.m. at Butterfield Crossing Park and Pool, 3952 Butterfield Crossing Drive. After the race, there will be awards, food and entertainment at the park.

Register online at www.tritherock.com, in person at the Recreation Center or by phone at
303-660-1036. Participants will need a swimsuit, running gear, a bicycle and a bike helmet.