Hundreds of swimmers, cyclists and runners will converge on the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall on Sunday, Aug. 2, for the 27th annual Tri-Rock Triathlon, the Rockwall Kiwanis Club's biggest fundraiser of the year.
Every dollar raised goes to the club's Food for Kids Program, which packs and distributes more than 1,000 weekend meal bags each month during the school year to students at six Rockwall ISD elementary campuses, according to the Rockwall Kiwanis Club's website. The program hit a milestone in January 2025 when volunteers packed the 50,000th bag at Divine Peace Church in Rockwall.
The sprint-distance course covers a 150-yard indoor pool swim, a 10-mile bike ride and a 5K run, according to the Rockwall Herald-Banner. The shorter distances and supportive atmosphere make it a popular choice for first-time triathletes while still challenging experienced competitors.
What to know
- When: Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026. Transition area opens before sunrise; race starts at 7 a.m. Course closes at 10:30 a.m.
- Where: J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall, 1210 N. Goliad St.
- Who: Open to participants age 13 and older. Relay teams and a virtual option are available for those who don't want to tackle all three legs solo.
- Register: Online at tinyurl.com/57kb5bzt, where course maps and race details are posted.
The 2025 race drew 326 participants, according to the Kiwanis Club. The program serves students at Rochell, Reinhardt, Dobbs, Springer, Cullins-Lake Pointe and Jones elementary schools. Teachers and counselors identify students who need help and discreetly connect them with the program. A $40 donation feeds 10 children.
Traffic heads-up
In prior years, the Rockwall Police Department has posted traffic alerts warning that westbound SH 66 is blocked during the race, with drivers rerouted via S. John King Blvd. to Airport Road. No 2026 alert had been issued as of Wednesday, July 29, but residents along the route should plan for possible closures Sunday morning.
