180 Kids. One Finish Line. A Growing Community Tradition.

The 2026 Just Tri It Kids Triathlon was more than just a race day. It was a celebration of confidence, healthy activity, community, and family connection.

This year, 180 young athletes crossed the finish line — more than doubling participation from 2025 — and for many kids, it was their very first triathlon experience.

Like many public recreation programs, Just Tri It has historically operated with limited resources. The program existed, but this year, thanks to support through the St. Johns County Parks Foundation, the experience felt different.

Community support helped elevate the event through:

• Professional race timing
• Improved safety and course operations
• Welcoming & enhanced athlete and family experience
• USAT-sanctioned race standards

One of the most memorable additions this year was the new Parent & Me division, where families raced side-by-side and encouraged one another across the finish line.

What makes this event special is that it’s not a private league or exclusive sports program. Just Tri It is an affordable public recreation opportunity that gives kids the chance to try something new, build confidence, and experience accomplishment in a supportive environment.

And you could see it everywhere — nervous smiles at the starting line, parents cheering from the sidelines, and kids beaming with pride after completing something they once thought was impossible.

As the event continues to grow, future support will help offset rising sanctioning and safety costs, maintain professional race operations, and create opportunities like a future bike and helmet scholarship program for children in need.

The goal is simple: continue building an event that is accessible, meaningful, and something St. Johns County families can look forward to each spring.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year possible.