The Half-Birthday Triathlon in Kona, TX

Every year around the kids' birthdays my wife would lament how limited we are in party options at that time of year (January & February).  Outdoors is usually crazy ice storms around then and she always wanted to give them a summer party with their friends.  So this year the boys got a half-birthday party (9-1/2 and 4-1/2).  It didn't take long to come up with a theme ....... triathlon!

Since Patrick "The Road"'s dream course wasn't a possibility, I knew we'd need to come up with something even more awesome and I think we succeeded!  While the kids played in the pool, my sister and I tested out the "bike" options available.  This is the Plasma Car - which made the cut along with a big wheel and a toddler's dump-truck walking toy (and an 18" bike for one special contestant).

Turns out this wasn't the best option for us adults.

The 18" bike came in handy when it was time for demonstration during the pre-race meeting.

Notice she's soaked from the "swim" portion.

Eventually it was time to start with Connor's friend Conrad being the first in the water.  Julian was next to go and needed some work on his swim form.

Connor's form left something to be desired as well.

In case you think these boys wouldn't take this race seriously, just check them out in transition.

No photos of my boys on the bike portion but there is this shot of my sister and nephew on the course.

As usual, they stepped it up on the run.

Do you think the mohawk makes him faster?

Connor stays aware of wind conditions by running with his tongue out.

It was a big time race to the finish.  Julian edged out our first starter, Conrad, and Connor was right behind keeping pace with big brother.

As they crossed the line, Angelia placed a lei and a medal over their heads.  Even my little sister was proud to wear it.

As you may have guessed, she has her own take on the event so be sure to check out the recap on her blog for some more hilarious pictures.  In the end it was a total success.  It could have been disastrous with the temps over 100, the winds over 20, and a main event that took longer to set up than to complete, but every kid really had a good time from start to finish.  I think it packed plenty of amusing entertainment for the adults too.  Hope your weekend events were just as enjoyable!