Triathlon attracts 900 children

Nine hundred children took part in the first leg of an annual triathlon at Woy Woy on Tuesday, January 22.

Sporting stars Kurt Gidely, Nicole Hackett, Kristina Hagberg and Benn Harradine along with Central Coast Mainers players awarded medals to all the participants aged between seven and 15 as they crossed the finish line after completing the specially-designed swimming, cycling and running course.

The distances varied depending on age and no placings or times were kept.

Newcastle Knights 2011 Player of the Year Kurt Gidley said the event enabled children of all sporting abilities and fitness levels to participate in an encouraging and supportive environment without the pressure of competition.

"Everybody had a fantastic time and it was great to see so many kids getting involved and enjoying a fun day out with family and friends," said Gidley.

"This isn't about getting the fastest time or winning the race, but is about taking part, having fun and being healthy.

"Everyone who participates gets a medal and goes home a winner," added Gidley.

He said the triathlon helped with the two major problems facing children: obesity and mental health issues.

It ran as a not-for-profit community event aimed at improving fitness and nutrition habits in children and families.

Now in its 14th year in Australia, the triathlon includes 10 events held across the country from January to May and will involve an estimated 16,000 Australian children this year.

According to post event surveys conducted by the organisers with parents over the years, children who participated got a major boost to their self esteem because of the "everyone's a winner" event philosophy and were more likely to continue doing physical activity after the event.

Media Release, 24 Jan 2012 Sandy Gersbach, Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids Tryathlon Photos: Andy Hatton