The Virgin Islands Triathlon Federation’s Junior Tri VI Committee hosted a fun-filled morning at the Bungalows on the Bay Resort on Jan. 26, welcoming 28 young athletes for the Jump Into January Splash ‘n Dash. Originally scheduled for Nov. 17 but postponed due to stormy weather, the event featured calm seas, sunny skies, and a cool breeze—ideal conditions for the swim/run competition.
Each age group took on a point-to-point swim followed by an out-and-back run. The youngest racers, ages 5-6, kicked things off with a 25-meter swim and a 0.25-mile run. Hanako Sanders led the swim but was overtaken by Cal Jackson on the run. In a thrilling finish, Hunter Whitworth surged ahead of Sanders to secure second place by just one second. Holden Ridgway, in his debut race, took third place for the boys, while Sanders claimed the top spot among the girls. Bexley Ivey and newcomer Gwendolyn Fritz rounded out the girls’ podium.
In the 7-8 category, Hadley Whitworth dominated the 50-meter swim, finishing in 1:18, nine seconds ahead of her nearest competitor, Michael Kuczynski. However, it was Milo Bird who stole the show during the 0.5-mile run, overtaking four runners to secure the overall win in 5:44. Hiro Sanders and Kuczynski finished second and third among the boys, while Whitworth clinched the top spot for the girls, followed by Grace Chewning and Charley Gay.
Emma Whitworth, a standout swimmer from the Dolphins Team, led the 9-11 race from start to finish. Her swift 100-meter swim time of 2:12 set her apart as she crossed the finish line first. Wyatt Jarrin followed as the second overall finisher and first-place boy. Dane Whitworth and Ian Bouzianis completed the boys’ podium, while Millie Leo and Caitlin Kuczynski secured second and third among the girls.
In the 12-15 category, two determined girls competed over a 200-meter swim and a 1-mile run. Ava Whitworth emerged victorious with a time of 11:17, while Olivia Jarrin finished strong in second place.
The Junior Tri VI Committee extended its gratitude to the Bungalows on the Bay Resort for hosting the event and to the many volunteers who ensured the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
The next junior event, the Silly Sockathlon, will take place on Sunday, February 9, at 8 a.m. at the Susana Ocasio Santana Park in Gallows Bay. This run/bike/run event is open to children of all abilities, ages 5 to 15. For more information, call 340-513-2707.
