Para-Olympic Hopeful Trains YMCA Triathlon Participants
Runner finishing the CK Triathlon
Ryan Van Praet, a professional para-triathlete, six-time Ironman Finisher and now personal trainer for the YMCA is coaching fundamentals for triathlon training to YMCA Triathlon competitors.
“I’ve been involved with triathlons for over 15 years and thought it would be really beneficial for those preparing for the Chatham-Kent YMCA Triathlon to have a program created for beginners looking to start swimming, biking, or running as well as for experienced athletes looking for an extra edge this season,” says Van Praet.
A 33 year old Chatham resident, Ryan was born with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a degenerative genetic disease that slowly eats at the photoreceptive cells of the retina, resulting in only 6% vision capabilities. His personal goal as a visually impaired athlete is to make the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio De Janeiro where Paratriathlon makes its debut.
Van Praet adds, “I’d like to be selected for the 2016 Rio Paralympics, to have the honour of representing my country and city. My main goal in the journey is to be an ambassador for the sport of paratriathlon, educating others on what is possible despite challenges they may face. But of course, a medal would be a bonus.”
The 14th annual Chatham-Kent YMCA Triathlon is being held August 17-18, 2013 at Rondeau Provincial Park – one weekend, 2 days and 5 great events for kids and adults of all ages: the events include Sprint Triathlon, Sprint Duathlon, Adult Do-a-Du, Adult Tri-A-Tri & Kids of Steel.
Saturday morning features the Kids of Steel races, involving children and youth from 6 to 15 years old. The first age group wave starts at 10:00am. On Saturday afternoon at 1:30 pm the Adult Do-a-Du race starts, with a 1 km run, a 10 km bike and a 2 km run. The Adult-Try-a-Tri race starts at 1:45 pm with a 375m swim, followed by a 10km bike and a 2km run. These two events are perfect opportunities for fit, adult newcomers to try out this exciting sport.
Sunday morning, the YMCA showcases the print events starting at 10:00 am. A Sprint Duathlon featuring a 2km run, 20km bike and 5km run will be followed closely by a Sprint Triathlon with a 750m swim, 20k bike and 5km run. Both these events are open to relay teams.
All proceeds from this event support the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign and the Chatham Y Pool Sharks.