Published August 16. 2024 11:50AM
By LOU WHEELAND
Special to The Press
Mikayla’s Voice, sponsored a Tri for Inclusion at Parkland High School on June 29.
The event is open to kids of all abilities, not just those with disabilities.
As with an adult Triathlon, the Tri for Inclusion includes swimming, bicycling and running only in distances designed for younger participants, a 75-yard swim, 2-mile bike ride and half-mile run.
The organization is named for Mikayla who was born with multiple disabilities.
She never spoke but was readily accepted by classmates in elementary school.
Her third-grade class even wrote and illustrated a book, “Our Friend Mikayla.”
The Nam Knights Lehigh Valley rode their Harley Davidson motorcycles to the Tri for Inclusion to show their support for Mikayla’s Voice.
Medics with Cetronia Ambulance Corps watch as Tri For Inclusion competitor Thomas heads for the last turns before finishing the half-mile run.
Tri For Inclusion participant Hadley crosses the finish line after the half mile run ending her triathlon at the Tri For Inclusion.
Jared Brown and canine companion, Jose II, enjoy their time at the Tri For Inclusion June 29 at the Parkland High School.
Jamie, 410, and Jamie, 406, are cheered as they crossed the finish line for the half mile run at the Tri For Inclusion.
Mikalya’s Voice Executive Director Rita Cheskiewicz places an award on Mikaela at the Tri For Inclusion.
The Nam Knights of the Lehigh Valley, led by President Tim “Sarge” Parsons, arrive at the Tri For Inclusion at Parkland High School to show their support.
Tri For Inclusion competitor Mark Heath shows the Tyler Smiles Award he earned at the Tri For Inclusion competition. Christine Sherman, director of Pediatrics Specialties at St. Luke’s University Health Network, presented the award.
Rose Allshouse, board of directors treasurer and president, was recognized at the Tri For Inclusion. Joining her were Heather Joseph, Sharon Jones and Rita Cheskiewicz.
PRESS PHOTOS BY LOU WHEELANDParticipants in the Tri For Inclusion June 29 at Parkland High School celebrate the occasion together.
