By Nur Lalji

Taylor Cundiff was one of the youngest participants in the PCC Natural Market Kids Triathlon that took place during Seafair last Sunday at Seward Park. Taylor, 6, competed in the Splashers event, which involved swimming 50 yards, biking one mile, and running one-fifth of a mile.

Taylor gets his passion for raising funds and racing from his parents. After seeing his father Reed Cundiff partake in numerous running races and triathlons, Taylor decided to compete as well. Although Cundiff’s father was hesitant to let his son join the triathlon, particularly because of the bike-riding portion — since Taylor previously had only ridden in private with his family — he ultimately allowed his young son to join in the competition.

“I was a little bit [nervous],” Reed explained, “but I had run races when I was young, and it was time for him to just go and do it.”

Despite his dad’s initial apprehension, Taylor knew taking part in this triathlon was something he wanted to do.

“Taylor was really excited about it,” said Reed, who said Taylor went on to compete with an intense determination and an enthusiasm that charmed spectators.

Proceeds of the triathlon will go to the Benaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason, an internationally recognized research center committed to finding the causes and cures for autoimmune diseases such as type one diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

Nur Lalji is a senior at Newport High School. She loves writing and is also a reporter for her school newspaper.