Young athletes give it a "Tri" in Austrailia

Young athletes give it a tri
By PHIL EDWARDS , Monday, 5 March 2007

PARTICIPATION was the aim of the day at the MBF Foundation KidFit triathlon series, held at the George Town swimming pool and surrounds yesterday.

The free triathlon for kids only, was all about getting children in age groups from 7 to 15, up and active.

No prizes were awarded for winners but certificates were given out for all those who took part.

"We had about 120 kids involved, which was really pleasing considering there was a Little Athletics meeting on at the same time," Life Be In It State manager Stephen Dimsey said.

"A lot of the kids had never done anything like this before and all who entered went into a draw for random door prizes with new bikes given away to two lucky participants."

Mr Dimsey said the MBF Foundation was a charitable organisation set up to look at health issues affecting Australians including diet, obesity and exercise.

"We held these triathlon series in Tasmania first and are now taking the concept to 17 regional centres across the country," he said.

Participants completed a swim, ride and run over specific age-related distances.

"Competing in their age groups in a non-competitive atmosphere gave the children a sense of confidence and achievement - with no pressure put on them at all," Mr Dimsey said.

He said he was impressed by the George Town children who took part in the event with every child saying "thank you" for certificates and prizes presented.

The MBF Foundation kids- only triathlon held at Ulverstone Surf Life Saving Club on Saturday was also successful with 140 children take part.

Young athletes give it a &#34;Tri&#34; in Austrailia

Young athletes give it a "Tri" in Austrailia