Tri My Best Triathlon empowers kids of all abilities

TriMyBest Triathlon

Playing sports and participating in athletic events are childhood rites of passage. For kids with disabilities and physical differences, those experiences often have to be adapted to meet their needs.

Since 2015, Cook Children’s Rehabilitation Services has hosted Tri My Best Triathlon to allow patients of varying abilities to participate in an event they may never have the opportunity to join otherwise.

Participants from ages 4 to 18 are organized into heats of five according to their ages and physical abilities, and then bike, swim and run (or walk or “roll”) the course, with “buddies” providing assistance as needed. Volunteers stand at the finish line with pre-cut strips of paper so that each child can experience breaking through the finish line, and every participant receives a medal. The sidelines are filled with parents, family members and friends cheering on not just their athlete, but all of them. It’s a special day not only for the children participating, but for their families too. It’s an emotional and meaningful experience for parents to get to cheer their child on and then embrace them as the cross the finish line.

“The Tri My Best Triathlon is another one of those special things Cook Children’s does for their patients, beyond the standard of care. It is one of the most incredible, inspiring events I have ever experienced. My daughter isn’t different on this day. She isn’t left behind like she often is in gym class. On this day, she’s a triathlete and a gold medalist, just like the other participants. The staff, volunteers and crowd of supporters who cheer her on will never truly know the impact this event has had on her and on me. It is my privilege and honor to give back to this program as a Cook Children’s Employees Care donor. Thank you to every employee who chooses to give and support the efforts of our colleagues and the dreams of our patients.” – Cheryl Clark, grateful patient mom

Your support of Employees Care creates moment of magic for our patients and families every day. Thank you for giving!