By Shel Montalban and Julie Korableva

Shelby Montalban/Special to the Town Crier Chris Whitfield runs during the triathalon at De Anza College.

With a crowd exceeding 3,000 and a sense of excitement in the air, the 7th Annual Silicon Valley Kid’s Triathlon began at De Anza College June 4 when 729 children, 3-15, eagerly awaited the start of their wave.

Participants raced to complete a pool swim, a closed-road bike ride and running on-track. The distances for each segment varied according to the age of the participants.

“On the day of the event, I noticed that it was both competitive and fun,” said Riley, a Los Altos resident and excited 8- year-old who plans to return next year.

Spectators responded to the question: Of the many exciting moments throughout the day, which was the greatest?

“For me the most rewarding part of the kid’s triathlon is seeing how this event brings families together. It is super to see a young athlete being cheered on by family members and friends,” said Robert Jones, race director.

“The Silicon Valley Kid’s Triathlon is so well organized that my three children just love it! Natalie, Emily and Christopher aren’t finishing the race with the thought of placing first, they are just thrilled to cross the finish line!” said proud mom, Ceri Whitfield of Los Altos.

Before the race, monitors encouraged the inspection of bikes, selection of comfortable swim gear, proper running shoes and sunblock. Parents of the participants brought a good supply of water to avoid dehydration. Each athlete was body marked after receiving his or her full goody bag. The bags were packed with tattoos, water bottles, squirt guns, balls and towels, all donated by local sponsors.

FedEx was the 2006 Silicon Valley Kid’s Triathlon generous title sponsor with a contribution of $5.000.

Jamba Juice, Rio Adobe, Sports Basement and Metrosport were on hand to provide smoothies, burritos, bike helmets and swim caps. The hardworking athletes welcomed the treats.

More than 130 volunteers from the Silicon Valley Triathlon Club and other community organizations came out on race day to ensure the event operated safely, helping children with many important functions such as tying shoes properly, locating their bikes, applying sunscreen and - most of all - cheering them on.

“Helping the kids, watching them race and seeing all of those smiles, what a wonderful experience,” said volunteer, Joya Whitford of Los Altos.

Continuing with the Silicon Valley Kid’s Triathlon philosophy, all profits were donated to the Silicon Valley Children’s Fund. The fund supports the Santa Clara County Children’s Shelter for abused and neglected children. Its mission is to help the children heal and achieve their goals and dreams.

The Children’s Shelter was not the only big winner, as all 729 participants left with a sense of community and accomplishment after having worked hard to train, compete and benefit others.

“When I crossed the finish line, I really felt like I was a good athlete,” said Connor, 7, of Los Altos.

As the participants walked away, their smiles reflected a great sense of pride in a job well done.