School kids get a taste for triathalon

Hineata Baker (left), 8, and Pashence Schneider, 10, were part of a dominant trio at the McDonald's Hawke's Bay Primary School Triathlon Champs.

Hundreds of sporty kids skipped school yesterday and invaded Frimley Park to swim, cycle and run.

The annual McDonald's Hawke's Bay Primary School Triathlon Champs saw children from years 5 to 8 take part in swimming, cycling and running at the Hastings park.

Twelve-year-old triplets Finn, Trinity and Ally Richardson had a blast, each swimming 200m, as part of different teams for Taradale Intermediate.

The budding swimmers, chosen by their school to participate in the triathlon, have competed in the event for several years and are keen to continue for as long as they can.

"It was quite easy because we do heaps of swimming," Trinity Richardson said, while his brother, Finn, was relieved the temperature of the pool wasn't too cold. Years 5 to 6 had to undertake a 100m swim, 2.5km cycle and 1.5km run, while year 7 to 8 students did a 200m swim, 5km cycle and 3km run.

Tamatea Intermediate School student Emma Webb endeavoured to complete the course on her bike with two of her friends running and cycling.

"It was hard when the wind was facing against me but other than that it was good."

Considering it was her first time taking on the event, having done a duathlon earlier in the year, the 11-year-old believed she had done well.

"I am definitely doing it next year. It gives us an opportunity to get out of school and do something that will help ourselves."

Hineata Baker, 8, Pashence Schneider, 10, and Paris Spears, 11, were an unstoppable team. The three Te Pohue School kids had lots of fun, enjoyed every moment of their event and hoped to do it again next year.

Triathlon Hawke's Bay general manager Mike Bond said the event was a success, with a record number of 570 children taking part.

"Numbers are well up this year, with a lot of new schools. The year 5 and 6 children were a bigger group, but it has been very good."

Vouchers and prizes from Avanti Plus Hastings, ASB, Weet-Bix TRYathlon and Lick This Ice Cream Parlour were awarded to children participating, along with placegetter awards for the top individuals and teams in each event.