Girl Scout troop's triathlon opens youth series

The members of Girl Scout Troop 758 would like children and adults to participate in the troop's upcoming triathlon.

For the second year, the troop has partnered with the Youth Triathlon Series in the season's kick-off event, Tri It Get Fit, on March 13 at the Temple Terrace Family Recreation Complex, 6610 E. Whiteway Drive.

Beth McCullough, troop co-leader, said people who can swim, bike and run short distances are welcome to participate. Although promoted primarily as a means to promote youth fitness, the triathlon is open to youngsters ages 5 through 15 and grownups of all ages.

"What we're really excited about is that our event is the season opener to five YTS triathlons in Hillsborough County," said McCullough, the mother of two troop members, Claire, 12, and Eve, 10.

She is also thrilled that in an effort to build points toward earning their silver badge next year the girls decided to open up this year's event to physically challenged children. As a result three young women from Paralympic Sport Tampa Bay have signed on to participate.

All youngsters entered will receive T-shirts, goody bags and medals. Adult participants will get T-shirts.

Last year the event drew 172 participants, and organizers are hoping for even more this time.

"The triathlon is a fun way to get a great workout because you get to swim, bike and run," Eve said.

Until she got involved in planning last year's triathlon, Claire said she had no idea how much work it would be.

"Working with my Girl Scout troop to plan our second triathlon has been easier this year," she said. "We have all gained better leadership, teamwork and speaking skills while helping our community."

Proceeds from the event and its sponsorships will cover the rental cost for the center and the hiring of police officers to help with traffic control. Most of the remainder will be deposited into the troop's treasury, and a portion will be donated to community charities. Those include Clouds of Hope, which benefits children with life-threatening illnesses, and the Miracle for Megan Garrett Irrevocable Trust, a fund that helps pay for the medical expenses of a young girl who has mitochondrial disease, a condition that affects the body's ability to convert food into energy-producing cells.

Brenda Goltermann, the troop's co-leader, said she is proud to be associated with these Scouts and is especially impressed with their compassion for humanity.

"They are a unique group of girls," she said.

Participants may register online at www.iamathlete.com or www.active.com or in person at the recreation center from 4 to 8 p.m. March 12.