From the outside looking in, it's simply kids doing kids things. But it also serves as a reminder that motivation can be fostered and nurtured.

There are plenty of interesting elements of the Lititz recCenter's Youth Triathlon. But perhaps the most important thing to know is what it does for kids.

"I think it's important to engage our kids because we're leading more sedentary lifestyles," said Corey Pickel, the associate executive director of the Lititz recCenter. "It's important for kids to get out and move. This is a friendly form of competition that could lead to other things (like increased physical activity). Competition is a great thing. It's awesome when you're lifting each other up. Some people are going to perform well. But our goal is to support everyone to do their best and to continue to improve."

A scaled-back version of the rec center's adult competition, the Youth Triathlon will be staged from 5 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4, at Lititz recCenter, 301 W. Maple St., Lititz. The 18th edition of the annual event is open to boys and girls in four age categories: 5 and 6, 7 and 8, 9 and 10 and 11 and 12.

Participants can register by visiting http://www.lititzrec.com/special-events-programs, emailing SimonAbabou@lititzrec.com or calling 717-626-5096, or they may register in person the day of the event.

"Usually, we have some music going that lifts the atmosphere," said Pickel. "The kids are excited. They're high-fiving each other and getting familiar with the course. Everyone's cheering each other on and moving to the next event. It's cool. It's really high energy throughout the event."

The Youth Triathlon course, which will take place entirely on the grounds of the Lititz recCenter, will vary in length based on age. Each contestant will first swim one to three laps of the rec center's Olympic-size indoor pool, then pedal two to five laps of its outdoor bike course and finish by running one to three laps of the rec center's quarter-mile outdoor grass course.

"It's designed to be fun, so everyone can come in and participate," said Pickel. "It's also a great learning experience. Sort of like, 'Hey, this is what a triathlon feels like.' (Children) come in, have a good time and get to compete in a friendly environment."

More than 80 kids, mainly from Lititz and surrounding communities - some of whom are members of the rec center and some of whom aren't - are expected to participate.

"It's not a fundraiser; it's just one of our annual special events," said Pickel. "I think what's unique about it is that the Lititz recCenter has the facilities to stage an event like this. It's designed to introduce our youth to something different. It's catered to the youth. We want to try to introduce things to the community that everyone can be a part of. It's just a great event all the way around."

Established in 2006, the Youth Triathlon is one of five special events that the Lititz recCenter hosts throughout the year. The rec center also conducts a golf outing in May, an adult triathlon in August, a rock climbing competition in September and a 5K run in September.

"The event continues to grow," said Pickel. "Our goal is to improve lives through fitness and provide exceptional programs. We want to come together as a community and get the word out about what we do. This is a way to empower our youth to explore healthier ways to deal with stress. It's a perfect event for a first-timer to have fun with friends."