Have you heard of a kids’ adaptive triathlon? I think many people know someone in their circle of family and friends who takes on the extraordinary feat of training in swimming, biking and running to compete in a triathlon that includes all three events back to back. I’m always impressed by those who willingly commit themselves to this challenge. But, even more impressive to me is the strength and determination of medically complex children who participate in a kids’ adaptive triathlon, in which these young athletes complete versions of the swim, bike and run tailored to their individual mobility level. I consider our community to be very lucky that St. Louis Children’s Hospital hosts such an event annually, fittingly called the Tri My Best Adaptive Triathlon.

I first attended Tri My Best in 2018 as a volunteer and have tried to return each year since with JJMF. It is one of my favorite events because it is so uplifting! Everyone there is excited, encouraging, and celebratory. Watching and cheering for the athletes as they cross the finish line is something everyone should experience – they look so proud, as they should be. The children’s grit and enthusiasm motivate me to give my all to every challenge. I love seeing the smiles on the parents’ faces, too. I imagine that they feel so very proud and are relishing in all the people cheering on their child. Seeing the growth each year and how the community has come together to support this important occasion is incredible.

The JJMF team recently attended this year’s Tri My Best event together and enjoyed a beautiful morning of cheering on the athletes and connecting with families and supporters. Collectively, we agree it is one of our favorite events every year, and this year was certainly no exception. I wanted to share with you a little more about why this event is so amazing, from the perspectives of each of our team members (one of whom is also a mom whose son was a first year athlete at the event!).

Kelsie Guerriero, Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships
I love how Tri My Best is designed to give all children—no matter their mobility level—a reason to train and stay active throughout the year. Seeing the sheer determination on each of the athletes’ faces and witnessing their incredible courage, super strength, and tenacity as they crossed the finish line gave me goosebumps and was inspiring beyond words.

Allison Reichart, Director of Development and Operations
In my third year attending Tri My Best, I was struck walking into the event with excitement that the day had come. Even though technically I came to “work” at the JJMF’s table sharing resources and upcoming events with families, this event never feels like work to me. In fact, I realized this year that I would want to attend Tri My Best as a spectator even if it wasn’t part of my role as a JJMF team member. The vast number of dedicated volunteers, supporters and families coming together to enthusiastically root for the athletes creates an encompassing feeling of community support and pride.

Becky Belanger, Programs and Development Manager
Having attended the Tri My Best Triathlon for several years, 2024 was my favorite! Watching this event grow to what it has become today is such a powerful testament to our community. Hosting a tent at the Family Fun Area has been such a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with families as well as St. Louis Children’s Hospital staff and other community organizations. The partnerships we can develop through connections made at this event are immeasurable in the impact on the community. Cheering on the athletes is so heartwarming; they have worked hard to train for this event and to witness them breaking the finish line is beyond joyful!

Karlita Blackwell, Community Engagement Manager
This was our son’s first time participating in Tri My Best, and it was an unforgettable experience. Finding activities that are both adaptive and inclusive to his needs can be difficult. Tri My Best not only made this possible, but it was also a celebration of his abilities! The joyful atmosphere was infectious and our entire family felt seen and understood. Our son enjoyed every moment and is already excited to participate again next year!

The event is open to the community to come out and cheer on the athletes. I encourage everyone to come experience this uplifting event for themselves next fall. I promise you will leave feeling inspired by the overarching feelings of togetherness and community that permeate the event, the sounds of cheering and happiness, and most of all, the impressive strength and determination of the athletes themselves.