What is a daunting challenge for many adults will be a fun holiday achievement when a group of young kids finish their first triathlon this Friday (12 January).
The six to twelve-year-olds have been using their holidays to participate in UQ SPORT’S junior triathlon program, under the guidance of triathlon enthusiast and Coach Jo Stephens.
As a triathlon competitor for over ten years and a specialist in major Ironman triathlons, Stephens knows first hand the difficulties of the sport.
Having coached the program for the last four years, Stephens said the kids did not have the fear factor which meant they were excited and willing to give it a go.
“It’s great to get the kids involved in triathlon at an early age and it’s brilliant to see them enjoying the sport as so many adults are scared of it,” Jo said.
“The kids that do the clinic never seem to say ‘I don’t want to do this’ or ‘I don’t want to do that’, they always want to be involved and they’re already motivated by the time they come, which is surprising given some of them are only six or seven,” she said.
The Kids Triathlon clinic covers all aspects of triathlon including swimming, cycling, running and transition, and Jo said it had proved a real success among the children.
“This time there’s thirty kids and every couple of days more are coming along so it’s been really popular, the kids seem to really enjoy it.”
And the children at the clinics could not agree more. Max, who has already attended numerous other junior clinics at UQ SPORT, said the triathlon was one of his favourites.
“I had a wicked time,” Max said
“I can’t pick my favourite bit of the day, all of it was good. We did riding, running and swimming and we practiced changing over which was good as well.”
Eight-year-old Fred said he was looking forward to Friday’s race.
“I liked cycling the best,” he said
“It’s my first time and I want to do it again next year. On the last day we’re going to do a proper triathlon and I can’t wait.
“I’ve got to remember my goggles next time though because I forgot them today and everything looks misty now!”
Triathlon is the fastest growing and newest Olympic sport but there are few opportunities for juniors to get involved in it.
The UQ SPORT junior clinic has provided a great platform for children to be introduced to the sport.
Brisbane adults will also get their chance to try their hand at the sport when UQ SPORT holds its annual Beginners Adult Triathlon on the 1st of April at the University of Queensland St Lucia campus.
For more information on UQ SPORT junior holiday clinics visit www.uqsport.uq.edu.au or call 3365 6612.
Media Contact: Melina Stephanos | UQ SPORT | 07 3346 7519 | melinas@uqsport.uq.edu.au
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: Kids doing triathlon, Friday 12 January 10-10:30am at the UQ Aquatic Centre, University of Queensland St Lucia Campus.
.jpg)
