Darlington School will host the first annual Tri-ESP on Saturday, May 6 at 5 p.m. at the Huffman Athletic Center in partnership with Extra Special People Inc. (ESP).
"This triathlon is designed for all children with disabilities," said Beth Smith ('87), pre-K teacher and event coordinator. "Each athlete will have a buddy to complete the race with. The athletes will swim, bike, and run to the best of their abilities, and after the race, there will be a celebration with awards, food trucks, and music."
For the swimming portion, participants will swim 25 yards or one full length of the Huffman Center pool. They will then go outside to the parking lot where they will complete the biking portion. Following the bike ride, participants will run one lap around the track.
"For each event, there are varying levels of accomodations available based on the needs of each participant," said Smith.
Click here to register for the event. There is a $10 entry fee per participant, and scholarships are available as needed. There will be a mandatory practice on Sunday, April 16, at 4 p.m. for all participants and buddies to swim and walk the course.
Volunteers are needed for the event. Click here to volunteer as a buddy or a cheerleader. Buddies will complete the triathlon with an ESP participant and cheerleaders will be stationed throughout the course to encourage and cheer for participants.
"Tri-ESP is a race, but most importantly it's a celebration!" said Smith. "Members of the community are invited to attend to cheer on the athletes and learn more about the work ESP is doing in the Rome-Floyd community."
Contact Beth Smith with questions at bsmith@darlingtonschool.org.
