On May 25, 2008, 60 teens swam, cycled and raced around the Mississauga city centre at the first annual Mississauga YMCA Tri at the Y. Based on the Kids of Steel triathlon program, the race emphasized teamwork, fun and the benefits of getting fit. “These are not your typical kids who come out to sports," said Don Patterson, who volunteered to coach the teens and coordinate the race.

After months of group training, the youth were eager to show off their newfound skills in the three disciplines. The swimmers started off the competition with a 300-metre race in the YMCA pool before tagging the cyclists for their nine kilometre loop. The runners then completed the final three-kilometre leg. Participants are already asking when the next race is, and organizers are thrilled by the success of the event.