WEST CHESTER TWP. — About 600 triathletes from across the country are expected to compete in swimming, biking and running events during the 2012 USA Triathlon Junior and Youth National Championship in August.

Athletes ages 7-19 are scheduled to compete at age-appropriate distances in a number of races during the two-day event on Aug. 11-12 at Voice of America Park, 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester Twp.

The event is being sponsored by USA Triathlon and the Butler County Visitors Bureau.

On Aug. 11, the event will feature the draft-legal Youth Elite (ages 13-15) and Junior Elite (16-19) National Champions.

The Youth National Championships for ages 7-15, as well as draft-legal mixed team relay for ages 13-19, will be held Aug. 12.

“USA Triathlon is excited to bring the Junior and Youth National Championship to West Chester,” said Jeff Dyrek, USA Triathlon National Events director.

“This event offers a race for athletes ranging from first-time youth triathletes to the nation’s future Olympic hopefuls.

“We’ve experienced record participation numbers in recent years and hope to achieve the same in Ohio.”

This is the first time Butler County has hosted the event.

Its economic impact is estimated at about $500,000, said Jason Williams, BCVB senior sales manager of sports and events.

“We are thrilled to serve as the host for this National Championship,” said Mark Hecquet, who is executive director of the BCVB.

“With an expected 600 competitors and their families, the economic impact will be felt across the country through our hotels, restaurants, attractions and shopping venues.”

Judi Boyko, West Chester Twp. administrator, said the community is excited to be chosen as the host site.

“To have a sporting event of this magnitude and prestige come to West Chester is very exciting. We look forward to hosting these athletes and their families during this two-day event,” she said.

For more information, go to usatriathlon.org.

Contact this reporter at (513) 483-5219 or Denise.Wilson@coxinc.com.