The Strong Kids Triathlon is "chip" timed; each participant will have a timing band around their ankle instead of wearing a race bib as you would in a foot race. When they start and finish each section of the race, they will cross over a timing mat; this will mark their time. Times will be calculated from here.
For example, a participant starting last could still finish in first place if they had a faster overall time.
The swim is a "time trial' start, a participant will enter the water approximately every 10-20 seconds allowing enough time for the previous participant to be a safe distance ahead.