208 Kids Triathlon Challenges Local Youth for Third Year
Story by: Dana Greig
Photo by: Kim Johnson
The 208 Kids Triathlon is gearing up for its third annual event on Saturday, June 28, 2025, inviting children ages 4 to 13 to swim, bike, and run their hearts out at Pioneer Park in Grangeville. The triathlon is more than just a race—it's a celebration of effort, community, and the joy of finishing something tough.
Running from 8:00 a.m. to noon, the event splits competitors into age groups, ensuring each child faces a challenge appropriate for their level. Registration is $30.00 through June 15. To register visit grangevillesports.com
Building moment each year, the event continues to expand. From 55 racers in the inaugural year to 74 last summer, the triathlon has steadily grown in popularity. Now in year three, entries are capped at 100, mostly due to space limitations.
“Our goal this year is growth, not necessarily in numbers but in value, incentives and rewards,” said event coordinator Liza Wilson, who has spearheaded the event. “But we’re also committed to keeping this event affordable for families.”
For parents and kids alike, the triathlon offers an unforgettable experience—one that mixes grit with fun. And as any of the young athletes will tell you, it's no walk in the park.
Jack, 7, described the hardest part as running. “You’re tired already,” he said, after swimming and biking. But he lit up when talking about the finish: “Running through the arch and getting a medal—that’s the best part.”
Benson, 9, echoed that sentiment. “Running is hard because you have to swim and bike first. It's pretty hard.” Still, the payoff was clear: “It feels amazing when you finish. You know you did something really big.”
For Cece, 5, the dual challenge of running and swimming was the toughest. But what she remembers most isn’t the pain—it’s the pride. “You feel happy afterwards,” she said with a smile.
Their comments reflect a theme that repeats throughout the event: struggle gives way to satisfaction, and effort becomes accomplishment.
The idea spawned from Wilson and her husband, Kelby – who grew up in Cottonwood, whose children participated in triathlons when they lived in Kalispell, MT.
“The first couple years we would drive back just to do the triathlon because it was so fun and the kids got such a sense of accomplishment from doing it,” explained Wilson.
For logistical reasons, that drive started to make less sense and Wilson’s started brainstorming.
“I thought, ‘well we have a pool, we have a park, it’s all right there. Why don’t we just try to do one here,’” said Wilson.
To get started she contacted a few sponsors who were all immediately onboard.
“There’s been overwhelming support from our sponsors and the community,” emphasized Wilson.
The event is a labor of love and local support. Volunteers who have helped make the event happen since its inception include Amie McAllister, Emily Schacher, ChivanaYoung, Tess Dreyer and Amber Snodgrass.
Local sponsors have also stepped up in force. This year’s supporter list features:
- Grangeville Elks Lodge 1825
- University of Idaho Extension – Idaho County
- Syringa Hospital & Clinics
- St. Mary’s Health
- Lions Club International
- Idaho Forest Group
- Prime Auto Detailing
- Highland Realty
- Cottonwood Community Federal Credit Union
- Extreme Adventure Club
- Idaho Excavating
In-kind contributions like coupons, snacks, and appearances from local food trucks have also enhanced the event atmosphere. In previous years, kids were treated to popsicles and free coupons from sponsors like One for the Road and Peppers Taco Truck.
At its core, the 208 Kids Triathlon is about more than competition. It’s about helping kids discover what they’re capable of—mentally and physically.
“The intent is not only to inspire them that they can do amazing things, but also try to instill a love for competing,” said Wilson. “Being healthy goes hand in hand with it.”
Future goals for the event include the addition of preparation clinics during May to help kids train for each segment of the race. A scholarship program is also on the horizon, designed to help families offset the cost of whatever sports their children want to do
Volunteers are always needed for multiple tasks during race day on the course, those interested can email avery3639@gmail.com.
Follow the event on Facebook for additional details, updates, and answers to frequently asked questions.