Kids can step off the sidelines and into the action at Blaine's first Kids Triathlon.

Buoyed the success of the city's adult triathlon, which made its debut in 2012 and is held each May, leaders of the Anoka County suburb decided to add a kids event this July.

More than 20 kids — mostly children of adult triathletes — have already signed up for the inaugural event, which will start at 8 a.m. on July 26. There's space for up to 100 kids ages 7 to 14. Parents are invited to complete portions or the entire race with their children.

"It's an introductory-level type of thing for kids to try it out and see if they like it," said Nate Monahan, Blaine Parks and Recreation program supervisor. "Mom and Dad can swim or do the whole event with them."

The kids race includes a 165-yard swim at Lakeside Commons Park, a 2.3-mile bike ride and a one-mile run.

To keep costs down, the kids' event will not be officially timed, but parents are encouraged to time their children. The race will cost $20 for residents and $22 for nonresidents.

For safety, the swim will occur between the swimming buoys at Lakeside Commons beach. Lifeguards and the Fire Department's rescue boat will be present.

Adult event is May 17

Meanwhile, Blaine's Triathlon for adults will be May 17. This season's long, hard winter has organizers again watching water temperatures. Last year, late ice-out and cold temps had organizers worried that the swim portion might have to be dropped, though it went on as planned.

"We are hoping for some warm weather," Monahan said. "We are hoping to get the water temperatures in the 60s."

So far, 200 athletes have signed up for the May event. There are still 100 spots left. The adult triathlon in May is officially chip timed.

Adults will complete a 0.3-mile swim, a 16.7-mile bike ride, and a 3.5-mile run.

Individual registration costs $90 plus a processing fee. Relay teams of two or three cost $125 plus a processing fee.

For more information about competing or volunteering for the third annual Blaine Triathlon, go to www.blainetriathlon.com.

For more on the Kids Triathlon on July 26, go to the city's website at www.ci.blaine.mn.us or contact Nate Monahan at nmona han@ci.blaine.mn.us or 763-785-6151.

Shannon Prather • 612-673-4804