Children challenged to join in triathlon

Northland kids are being urged to get their running shoes on and sign up for the 2013 edition of the annual Ray White Allens Kids Triathlon.

This year's event will be held on the Onerahi foreshore on March 17 with entries being open for kids aged from 8 to 14.

Last year the event attracted 659 kids from 72 schools, something Sport Northland is hoping to replicate at this year's event.

Sport Northland's events team leader Hayley Overton said the triathlon has proved to be a bit of nurturing ground for future stars.

One Northlander whose name is featuring at a national level is Simone Ackermann, who competed in the Kids Triathlon as a youngster and is now tagged as a future champion by Triathlon New Zealand.

Sport Northland is hoping this year's event will be a true triathlon and allow for the usual three disciplines of swimming, cycling and running.

Last year the swim leg had to be cancelled due to a sewage spill into the harbour after rain. However, the event was altered to a run, cycle, run event which the kids adapted to.

Overton urged kids to put their hand up and challenge themselves.

"The triathlon is about getting out there and having a go. It is an amazing day out for everyone and simply by entering you're in the running to win some great prizes including one of 10 bikes from AvantiPlus."

Sport Northland said the entry fee included a kid's tri t-shirt and swim cap, with all finishers receiving a medal for their efforts.

Enter at www.rwwhangarei.co.nz or entry forms are at Sport Northland and most schools. Entries close on March 8.