Weet-Bix Tryathlon Hastings draws big turnout as kids chase medals

Jackson Walker (left), Zane Goodson, Madison Lynch, Imogen Walker and Carlos Goodson from Bledisloe Primary School with their 2026 Weet-Bix Tryathlon medals at Mitre 10 Park.

Over 1100 young athletes descended upon Hastings’ Mitre 10 Park to give their best shot at the 2026 Weet-Bix Tryathlon.

Athletes swam, ran and biked their way to the finish line where they received medals from White Fern Hannah Rowe, Black Stick Olivia Shannon, Central Stag Tyler Annand, plus Hurricanes players in the region before their game against the Western Force at MacLean Park on Friday evening.

Brothers Zane and Carlos Goodson, 9 and 6 respectively, gave the triathlon a go together.

This was Zane’s second triathlon after finishing last year’s event and said the best part was getting to meet the Hurricanes players and receiving his medal.

Brothers Carlos and Zane Goodson (front left and right) with Hurricanes players Xavier Humia (left), Jordie Barrett and Brad Shields.

Carlos was unsure what to expect from the event but said he loved crossing the finish line to get his first triathlon medal.

Sanitarium NZ general manager Michael Barton said there was a fantastic turnout for the event to cheer on all the athletes.

“Now in its 33rd year, the triathlon has become a beloved tradition in the community, and we’re proud to host an event that gives kids of all abilities the chance to try something new, build confidence, and most importantly, have fun.”

Mayor Wendy Schollum opened the event and said the sports park was the perfect venue for the triathlon and it was “a real buzz seeing all the action”.

“Teaching our tamariki to give things a go (to try) is a critical life skill that grows leaders in sports, business and community,” she said.

“It’s such a great opportunity for kids of all abilities to get fit and healthy training and experience the sense of achievement of having given it a go and making their way over the finish line.”