Former MLB Star Eric Byrnes and Let Them Play Foundation Release “Let Them Play — A Triathlon Across America”

April 17, 2020

Documentary film chronicles Byrnes’ cross-country journey to promote youth health and fitness

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.— USA Triathlon today 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.

About USA Triathlon

USA Triathlon is proud to serve as the National Governing Body for triathlon, as well as duathlon, aquathlon, aquabike, winter triathlon, off-road triathlon and paratriathlon in the United States. Founded in 1982, USA Triathlon sanctions more than 4,300 events and connects with more than 400,000 members each year, making it the largest multisport organization in the world. In addition to its work at the grassroots level with athletes, coaches, and race directors — as well as the USA Triathlon Foundation — USA Triathlon provides leadership and support to elite athletes competing at international events, including International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Championships, Pan American Games and the Olympic and Paralympic Games. USA Triathlon is a proud member of the ITU and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC).

 About the USA Triathlon Foundation

The USA Triathlon Foundation was created in 2014 by the USA Triathlon Board of Directors as an independent tax-exempt 501(c)(3) entity. Under the leadership of its Trustees and Committee members, the Foundation serves as a means to create a healthier America through triathlon and seeks to transform lives by opening up new pathways to the sport for all, especially those who are otherwise underserved. The USA Triathlon Foundation operates with the belief that every child should have the chance to participate, every paratriathlete should have the opportunity to compete, and every aspiring elite athlete should be able to chase his or her Olympic dream. Since the Foundation’s inception, more than $3 million has been provided to worthy causes and organizations that support its mission. Donations to the USA Triathlon Foundation ensure America’s youth are introduced to the benefits and fun of a multisport lifestyle, athletes with disabilities receive the training, support and gear to be able to participate and excel, and the best aspiring young athletes have a chance to pursue their Olympic Dreams. Visit usatriathlonfoundation.org to learn more and donate today.

About The Let Them Play Foundation

The Let Them Play Foundation was established in May 2018 by Eric Byrnes and his wife Tarah to empower and inspire everyday play for kids. The foundation is focused on funding specific needs for organizations that provide the means and opportunity for children to play and raise awareness of the plight of inactivity facing our children around the country. They are committed to being the bridge between small gifts and a big difference by giving 100% of the donations in the form of Grants.

– usatriathlon.org –