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Hundreds of kids compete in Youth Triathlon

Hundreds participate in the annual Youth Triathlon at the J
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OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — A triathlon held on Sunday at the Jewish Community Center was all about the kids.

Hundreds of young athletes, from four-year-olds to teens, geared up for the Youth Triathlon.

One first time racer was Grayson Masterson, who was celebrating his ninth birthday on Sunday.

"I'm nervous" Masterson said before competing.

He wanted to be active this summer, so his dad enrolled him in a triathlon camp to train for the big day.

"We were working a lot on transitions. We did two actual triathlons, but they were kind of short compared to this," Masterson said.

He said he knew he wouldn't win the race, but has a motto he says to himself when he gets tired.

"I tell myself to keep going," Masterson said.

The racers started off with the swim, then took off to grab their shoes and ride on their bikes. Each age group had their own route. For Masterson, he rode three miles on his bike.

Finally, the athletes ditched the bikes and ran for the finish line.

One dad, who had two sons competing, said the event shows the next generation that being active can be fun.

"Giving them some activities to do to build their self-confidence and also have some fun competing, you know. Coming out here and competing is good for the kids," Dan Moon said.