Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Anna Lausch

Age(s): 11

Whiz Kid's Community: Mount Airy, MD

Whiz Kid's Accomplishment: First place, female 10-12, 2010 Spring Ridge Sprint Triathlon, Frederick, MD, July 25, 2010 and First place, female 9-10, 2010 TriColumbia Kidz Triathlon, Columbia, MD, August 29, 2010

Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness: I do triathlons because for years I cheered on my Mom at triathlons and couldn't wait until I was old enough to race in one myself. I raced in my first triathlon when I was six and have been racing in triathlons for five years. Triathlons are fun because they combine three sports: swimming, biking and running.

My favorite part is crossing the finish line to the cheers of my Mom, Dad and younger brother. He races in triathlons too. When I place, like at the TriColumbia Kidz Triathlon or the Spring Ridge Sprint Triathlon, it gets me excited for the next race.

I swim year round on summer and winter swim teams, so the swim comes easier for me. The run is my least favorite and something I try to work on. My Dad is a runner so he encourages me. I drink lots of water and try to eat healthy too, and not just during triathlon season.

I definitely think other kids should try it, triathlons are so much fun! And, after you finish one you feel like you can accomplish anything.