Bikes blow kids away

Fifteen bikes will soon have Rowandale School pupils on the road to improved health and fitness.

They were given to the Manurewa school by Counties Manukau Sport so the children could prepare and taken part in the Weet-Bix Tryathlon.

But they will be used for more than sport, deputy principal Lois Hawley-Simmonds says.

‘‘Obesity and the lack of fitness is a real concern for our children. We will use the bikes to prepare for the tryathlon but also to improve the general health, fitness levels and confidence levels of the children.

‘‘The children couldn’t believe it. They kept asking if the bikes were really theirs. It’s a real blessing and we’re very, very grateful to Counties Manukau Sport, the [Manurewa] Local Board and the Wiri Licensing Trust for them.’’

Hawley-Simmonds says a purpose built track which every class will use, is also on the cards

Counties Manukau Sport chief executive Russell Preston says his organisation identified the lack of bikes as the reason why many Manurewa schools don’t take part in the tryathlon.

‘‘We bought 200 bikes and distributed them among interested schools. It means these schools can continue to participate in the annual Weet-Bix Tryathlon at Mountford Park.’’

The children at Rowandale Primary School with the 15 donated bikes.