Thousands of region’s kids give it their best try
Ngāmotu Beach was invaded by the absolute chaos only 1500 kids and their proud as punch parents can cause yesterday morning for the Weet-bix version of a triathlon.
Parents stood on the sidelines screaming and waving pom-poms, cheering their tamariki on.
One set of grandparents had come especially prepared with camping chairs.
Due to water quality issues at Ngāmotu Beach following overnight rain, the swim section of the event was cancelled and replaced with a short beach run, followed by a cycling leg and then another run, this time for 1.5km.
Local sporting heroes, basketballer Aaron Bailey-nowell, hockey player Anna Crowley, and surfer Paige Hareb were on hand to cheer kids on, pass out medals and offer high fives.
Schools from all around the region had set up camp under gazebos on the grass beside the beach to act as home bases for their kids all morning.
Jack Irvine was first to cross the finish line, with his parents waiting eagerly at the end for him.
He had to catch his breath before he could chat.
“The run was the hardest by far,” the 10-year-old said.
It was Jack’s second time participating and even though it was tough, he said crossing the finish line first was brilliant.
For 8-year-old Lucy Buttimore, who was also participating for the second time, running across the finish line was her favourite part, too.
"The running is my favourite.“
Parker Smith competed in the Splash & Dash, an event for 6-year-olds that usually just features a swim and a run.
She was disappointed the swim had been cancelled, as that was usually her favourite part, but was still happy to run as she thought she was pretty fast.
The Splash & Dash is designed for the 6-year-olds to prepare for the Tryathalon once they turn 7.
Parker’s mum Cerise was there cheering her daughter on and commended the team on a great event.
“It’s so well run and fun for the kids to get involved and just give it a go.”