The annual Riverside Tinman Triathlon on campus brought friends and families together to enjoy a day of competition and an opportunity to work on their fitness goals.

Jason and Jennifer Shah, members of the Riverside Stake Activities Committee of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, helped organize the family health event.

“Today’s sporting event is a run first, cycling second and swim last or a person can do any portion that is fit for them,” committee member Mindy Heckroth said.

The free public event allowed walk-in registration. Once participants have completed the forms, they would be given a number and a free T-shirt.

 “One of our goals is to bring families together in a healthy cultural setting.” Heckroth added. “Any person who wishes can participate”. Although the triathlon was organized by the church, the event was open to the public.

The swimming portion of the triathlon used to take place at John W. North High School, until the event needed a bigger place. This year, they relocated to the RCC Cutter Pool, while the Olympic pool is still under construction. 

“We have been growing over each season,” Heckroth said. “Today there are around 120 athletes, of any skill level, families with children …and mature adults.”   

Jeremy Shumaker, a cyclist and first time attendee, plans to return next year to perform his personal best. 

“Im here on a bet with my brother,” Shumaker added. He likes cycling, especially in Moab, Ariz. where he was earlier this month.

 Each athlete had a removable anklet that was used to record participants’ elapsed time.

59 year old athlete Mary Beth Stevens, competed in her class for the 5K section. 

“My son is using the truck that transports my bicycle, so I didn’t ride it today,” Stevens said. This would be her second season here participating in the triathlon.

Another high traffic area was the swimming pool. Rylee Rasmussen, life guard on duty and volunteering her first season said, “yes next season I would like to be in the event.”