YMCA Youth Triathlon 2026

The YMCA Youth Triathlon begins at Seapath Marina in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, following the departure of the last adult swimmer from the YMCA Wrightsville Beach Sprint Triathlon. This is a short open-water youth triathlon that is part of the larger sprint race, offering age groups for 7-8, 9-10, 11-12, and 13-15 year olds. The youth course consists of a 100-meter out-and-back swim, a bike leg of approximately 4 miles, and a 1.6-mile run loop. The overall event originated as the Pepsi Triathlon and still features individual, relay, aquabike, youth, and corporate relay races. Older teens have the option to compete in the full sprint distance, which includes a 1200-meter swim, an 11-mile bike ride, and a 5K run. Youth participants are also required to attend a pre-race course meeting at Wrightsville Beach Park; a virtual option is available for families unable to attend in person.