Originally published April 15, 2020 by USA Triathlon.

USA Triathlon announced it has partnered with the Let Them Play Foundation, founded by former MLB outfielder and avid triathlete Eric Byrnes and his wife Tarah Byrnes, to support the release of the documentary film “Let Them Play — A Triathlon Across America.” Presented by Taikuli Productions, the film premiered online on April 7 and is now available for streaming at letthemplayfilm.com.

In the documentary, Byrnes tackles a one-of-a-kind endurance feat in an effort to bring awareness to the lack of youth physical fitness in the United States. The goal of the cross-country journey was not only to push Byrnes’ own physical and mental limits, but also to showcase inspiring leaders and raise awareness about youth programs that are making a difference in this country.

Byrnes is supported by his family and friends across 57 grueling days of adventure, during which he swims 7 miles across the San Francisco Bay, bikes more than 2,000 miles to Chicago and runs 900 miles to Yankee Stadium in New York City all in an effort to blaze a trail for youth physical education reform.

“Our message regarding youth health and physical fitness is as important today, as ever,” Byrnes said. “Families are home together, and activities are restricted, but it’s important to stay moving. It will make you feel physically and mentally better.”

Donations received to the Let Them Play Foundation through May 29 will be used to create a grant program in partnership with the USA Triathlon Foundation. Grants will provide opportunities for youth to stay active and healthy by participating in swim, bike and run programs. To donate, visit letthemplayfoundation.org, or text TriLTP to 243725. The USA Triathlon Foundation and the Let Them Play Foundation will distribute the grants to grassroots youth multisport organizations. Additional information on the program, including how to apply for grant funding, is forthcoming.

“USA Triathlon and the USA Triathlon Foundation congratulate Eric Byrnes not only on his epic Triathlon Across America, but also on the release of this documentary film and, most importantly, its impact on the health and well-being of youth across the country,” said David Deschenes, USA Triathlon Foundation Executive Director. “We are proud to work with the Let Them Play Foundation to support this mission, and we look forward to sharing this incredibly inspiring film with the entire USA Triathlon family.”

Let Them Play is also working with USA Triathlon to promote the USA Duathlon Virtual Run-Bike-Run presented by TOWER 26, a free virtual event that runs from April 10-May 17. Registration is open at usatriathlon.org. Participants are encouraged to make an optional $35 donation to the USA Triathlon Foundation COVID-19 Relief Fund as part of registration, and donations directly support race directors and coaches in the multisport community who are being significantly impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. All donors will also receive an exclusive finisher medal.

To learn more about the Let Them Play Foundation, visit letthemplayfoundation.org. “Let Them Play — A Triathlon Across America” is available for streaming at letthemplayfilm.com. To keep up with Eric Byrnes on social media, follow his Instagram, Facebook and Twitter pages.




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    Summary
    Former MLB star highlights emotional benefits of exercise during triathlon across America
    Article Name
    Former MLB star highlights emotional benefits of exercise during triathlon across America
    Description
    Former MLB star's cross-country journey brings physical, mental benefits of exercise to light.
    Publisher Name
    USA Triathlon
    Publisher Logo