Tri A Boost For Kids

The benefits of organised sport for children are well documented, but a recent survey shows it is their self esteem that improves, along with their co-ordination and fitness. The Weetbix TRYathlon series is back soon, for the 2015/16 season. More than 200,000 New Zealand children have participated over the past 23 years and some 84% of parents  believe that the event has had a positive impact on their child.

The triathlons will be taking place in 16 locations around the country starting in December, and Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon Ambassador Valerie Adams is looking forward to seeing the boost of confidence it will give kids. The events are open to children aged between 7 and 15 years old, and consist of a swim, followed by a cycle and a run. If you have children or grandchildren in the age group, it is an excellent opportunity to join their training, spend some time with them and get fit yourself!

“Self-esteem for kids, or anyone for that matter, is so important and a great way to build self-esteem is to set goals and go about trying to achieve them. The Weet-Bix TRY is simply the perfect setting for that,” says the two-time Olympic shot put champion.

“Kids get to have fun through play and exercise, and it also helps with friendships and meeting new people,” she says. “It’s safe, well organised, and has lots of participants to make it a real deal event.

“Any kid that enters is going to find their own individual challenge and goal, but it’s all set up for them ready to achieve,” she says.

Her top tips for budding athletes are:

1. Have fun
2. Set your own goals
3. Make it a challenge
4. Work hard
5. Believe in yourself – remember, it’s up to you!

Sanitarium executive general manager, Pierre van Heerden, says, “it’s fantastic to see thousands of children every year training for and completing this event, no matter what their fitness level or sporting ability.”

“We know receiving a medal at the end of the event gives all the participants a feeling of pride and accomplishment, and that’s what the series is all about.”

The Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon kicks off in Manukau, Auckland, on 9 December with events running around New Zealand until 10 April 2016.  Click here for registration information.