ST. GEORGE — Hundreds of children enthusiastically ran the Ironkids race on Tuesday as a part of the 2021 Intermountain Healthcare Ironman World Championships. Youth ages 1-17 competed in a quarter-mile, half-mile or 1-mile run on the course in downtown St. George.
“I just like running a lot,” said participant Cary Collier, whose parents said they were very proud that their son wanted to participate in the Ironkids race.
The youngsters were cheered on and greeted at the finish line by some of the athletes who will be at the starting line on Saturday for the Intermountain Healthcare Ironman World Championships presented by the Utah Sports Commission. The Town Square was also filled with families and tourists watching the races.
Ironkids also marked the 11th “I Am True” Day, which focuses on working with athletes and the triathlon community to promote clean sport and the integrity of Ironman racing.
According to a press release, by pairing with the Ironkids event, the initiative brings its message of fair racing to the next generation of athletes. The race encourages runners to learn life-long healthy habits. Each participant receives a T-shirt and a finisher medal, according to a press release.
Photo Gallery
Participants fo the IRONKIDS get pumped up before taking off from the starting line, St. George, Utah, May 3, 2022 | Photo provided Ryan Bethke, St. George News
Children prepare to race in the IRONKIDS race, St. George, Utah, May 3, 2022 | Photo provided by Ryan Bethke, St. George News
A participant in the IRONKIDS is congratulated at the finish line, St. George, Utah, May 3, 2022 | Photo provided by Ryan Bethke, St. George News
An aerial shot of downtown St. George were races and ceremonies are taking place during IRONKIDS and IRONMAN, St. George News, Utah | Photo provided by Ryan Bethke, St. George News
The final participant finishes the Ironkids race cheered on by the crowd, St. George, Utah, May 3, 2022 | Photo by Stephanie DeGraw, St. George News
Children display their medals from running the IRONKIDS race on Tuesday, May 3, at Town Square Park, St. George, Utah, May 3, 2022
Cary Collier took part in the IRONKIDS race in Town Square, St. George, Utah, May 3, 2022 | Photo by Stephanie DeGraw, St. George News
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stephanie DeGraw is an award-winning journalist. For 25 years, she engaged in journalism, broadcasting and public relations. DeGraw worked for the Salt Lake Tribune, Associated Press and The City Journals. She was a reporter for a CBS television station in Twin Falls, Idaho. She graduated from Weber State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Broadcasting.