By Beth mechum
Staff Writer
Intermittent rain showers couldn’t wash away the juggler’s flames or dampen the spirits of the 435 participants who competed in the third annual Swim for Smiles Triathlon early Sunday morning at Chapel Hill Country Club.
In what was half carnival, half sporting event, Swim for Smiles Foundation co-creator Gary Kayye made sure to note it was all smiles.
“This couldn’t be better,†Kayye said. “That rain that we had right as it started cooled everything off, the parents are really happy, the kids are having a lot of fun and the races started on time.â€
The triathlon was open to anyone aged six to 18 and included both long-course and short-course races for those of any skill level.
Near the finish line you could see the participants red faced and exhausted as they rounded the last turn. They were greeted with a high five, a medal and the promise of gummy bears and frozen yogurt. Most bounced back quickly.
There was a magician, a juggler and a balloon-animal maker**** to keep siblings and parents entertained while their loved ones sweated it out on the course.
Long-course participant Justin Laatz, 12, of Chapel Hill said he was most proud of knocking at least a minute off his time from last year.
“I really wanted to do this because it was something I think I can really shine in,†Laatz said.
Alison Smith, 16, of Chapel Hill placed second among girls in the long-course race, but laughed when asked how she felt about her victory.
“I’m a runner, not a swimmer, so I didn’t feel great starting out swimming behind all the 8 year olds,†Smith said. “But then I felt better with the biking and running. It’s really tiring though.â€
Smith said she’d come back as long as she’s able, partly because of the competition and a lot because of “all the free stuff we get.â€
The Swim for Smiles Foundation, based in Chapel Hill, is an organization that raises money for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital through multi-sport events for kids.
Kayye first came up with the idea for the foundation when his 4-year-old daughter (now 13, and a participant in the triathlon) was ill and in and out of hospitals.
Though exact numbers aren’t totaled yet, Kayye said he expects the event will raise about $30,000 for the Children’s Hospital.
“Having spent a lot time in hospitals, I realized clearly what parents go through when their kids get sick and what the hospital goes through to help the parents,†Kayye said, “and it made me want to give back.â€