Ideal Beach Triathlon
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Ideal Beach Triathlon, Elkhart IN, June 26 2027
The Ideal Beach Triathlon program offers multiple race options at Heaton Lake in Elkhart, Indiana, including a sprint triathlon for individuals and team relays, plus separate kids competitive and non-competitive events. The sprint course uses a sandy beach swim entry and exit and a nearby transition area. Lifeguards and race staff are present for water safety.
The sprint swim requires two right turns around large orange buoys and takes place over a sandy-bottom entry. The bike course is a flat, fast loop along the Indiana-Michigan state line. The run follows a 3.1-mile out-and-back route along Heaton Lake, crossing a toll-road overpass and passing through an industrial park to a turnaround point.
Race distances:
- Sprint Individual/Relay: Swim 400 yards, Bike 12 miles, Run 3.1 miles
- Kids Competitive: Ages 6 to 14, Swim 25 yards, Bike 0.75 miles, Run 0.5 mile
- Kids Non-Competitive: Ages 6 to 12, Swim 25 yards, Bike 0.75 miles, Run 0.5 mile
Kids events require participants to swim 25 yards unassisted and ride a bike without training wheels. The competitive kids race is timed and does not allow parental assistance; the non-competitive option permits parents to accompany children. Monitors and volunteers oversee the kids' bike and run courses, and lifeguards staff the swim areas. Competitive kids are body marked and use timing chips; awards are given by age groups for the competitive event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
