Kids to Know: Miller and Linden Brown

From the starting line to the finish, these Tampa Bay siblings prove that age is no limit when it comes to big goals. Still in elementary school, Miller (10) and Linden (8) have already taken on the challenge of triathlons — swimming, biking and running their way through races that test strength, stamina and grit. The two share how they train together, what they love about competing and advice for other kids dreaming of crossing the finish line.

TBPM: What made you want to try a triathlon?

Miller: My mom showed me magazine pictures of kids doing triathlons. It looked fun and, when I decided I wanted to try, she looked up races and signed us up for back-to-back ones.

TBPM: Do you remember your first race?

Miller: I did my first triathlon when I was seven. I felt super nervous at the start because we had to swim in a lake, and I was worried about the alligators. My mom told me I would be okay and, once I got going, I felt better. I really like running, but my bike wasn’t very fast. Crossing the finish line was the best part and I got second overall.

Linden: I did my first triathlon at 5 years old. It was fun but hot. I recently did a triathlon with some friends, and the swim was my favorite part. It was in the pool and felt good because it was so hot outside. Crossing the finish line is pretty fun and so are the medals!

TBPM: How do you help each other get ready for a triathlon?

Miller: We don’t train specifically for triathlons. Sometimes, through track practice, we train with our coach.

TBPM: Do you have special race-day rituals?

Linden: My mom makes us eat a good breakfast, like eggs and a bagel — no sugar.

Miller: We always set our race gear out the night before because races have really early morning starts.

TBPM: What’s something hard about doing a triathlon and how do you work through it?

Miller: Sometimes, the swim feels really long, especially in lakes and oceans. My legs also get tired on the bike. I just tell myself to keep going and my mom and dad are usually right there cheering me on.

Linden: There can be a lot of waiting time at the start, and that’s tough. We have to arrive early and also wait for our age group’s turn, which takes time. The run is definitely hard, but it’s usually near the end when it feels toughest so I remind myself that it will end.

TBPM: What advice would you give to another kid who’s nervous about trying a triathlon?

Miller: Don’t worry if you’re not the fastest. Just try your best and have fun.

Linden: If you don’t like swimming in the ocean or the pool, try a duathlon—those are run, bike, run.

TBPM: Do you have favorite places in Tampa Bay to swim, bike or run?

Miller: We swim at our house and the lap pool at the YMCA. We love riding bikes and running around our neighborhood with friends.

TBPM: What’s your next goal?

Linden: I’m looking forward to trying another triathlon and seeing if I can beat my time.

Miller: Someday, I want to do a triathlon with my mom.

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