After nearly two decades in Cobourg, the YMCA Strong Kids Duathlon is expanding into Campbellford for the first time.
The annual event combines swimming and running while encouraging children to challenge themselves in a fun and supportive environment. Organizers say the emphasis is not on competition but rather on participation, confidence, and community connections.
The Cobourg event will be held Aug. 20 at Centennial Pool and Victoria Park, while Campbellford’s inaugural event is scheduled for Aug. 13 at the new YMCA facility. Participants range from children as young as three years old to teenagers, with distances increasing according to age group.
Volunteer and philanthropy committee member Jessica Fraser-Thomas, who helped establish the Cobourg event nearly two decades ago, says the expansion has been years in the making.
Fraser-Thomas says the event gives young participants an opportunity to discover what they are capable of while receiving support from family members, volunteers, and fellow competitors.
The event serves as a fundraiser as well, with proceeds supporting the Mothers of Newborns program in Northumberland and new children’s programming initiatives in Campbellford. Organizers hope to raise $10,000 this year, twice the amount typically raised.
Fraser-Thomas says the event’s greatest strength is the way it brings people together.
Registration information for both events can be found by searching for the YMCA Strong Kids Duathlon online. Organizers say participants of all abilities are welcome.
