The hot and sunny Saturday afternoon proved ideal conditions for the Cook Islands Triathlon’s annual Paradise Supplies Kids’ Tri.

Over 50 kids mingled excitedly at the Tikioki Tri Site, racking their bikes and getting helmets, goggles and trainers ready for their big afternoon. 

For many, this was their first adventure into the world of triathlon, while for others it was their chance to compete against their friends in a race which was purely for their age group.

The youngest participants aged nine and under took part either individually or in a team in a 100-metre swim, 3-kilometre bike ride and 1km run. 

The winner in the girls’ category was Julia Chan and in the boy’s category, Bon Berg & James Yarrall. The first team to cross the finish line was The Fun Team.

Cook Islands Triathlon president Roland Neururer said the competition was fast and frantic from the start, the lagoon was perfect and the youngest swimmers, who were all remarkable, showed great skills in swimming the 100m distance. 

For the older children, racing the longer course competition was a family affair.

In the 13–16-year-old girls race, the winner was Olivia Postrzygacz and in the boys division, the winner was brother Edmund Postrzygacz.

The boys 10-12 age group race was won by Luca Rossouw.

“It was especially great to see a five strong team from Aitutaki join us, thanks to Dani Adendorff,” Neururer said.

“The day was an amazing success and Cook Islands Triathlon Association extends very grateful thanks to all the marshals and volunteers who gave their time to ensure the safety of our kids and the smooth running of the event.

“To our major sponsor Paradise Supplies, and supporting sponsor Vaima Water who donated very generous prizes and covered all the costs to ensure that this is a free event for our children. Also, to the Raina family for the use of their land.”

The next big triathlon competition is the Annual BSP Women’s Triathlon on March 22.

The distances are 400m swim, 16km cycle and 4km run.  This can be completed individually or in a team.

“This race is a special one for the ladies and always a firm favourite in the calendar,” Neururer said.

“All ladies encouraged to come and give it a go on your own or in a team with friends.”

Registrations are open via the website www.rarotri.com/events or email Neururer at fb1@edgewater.co.ck.