The annual Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon was held at the Queen Elizabeth Oval and the Bendigo Aquatic Centre on Sunday.
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Sanitarium community engagement manager David Martin said the event would help children in Bendigo become motivated to live healthy and happy lives.
“We want children to gain confidence in themselves and go on to do whatever physical activity they choose,” Mr Martin said.
“Today’s TRYathlon is made of simple activities such as swimming, cycling and running.”
The participants commenced the TRYathlon with swimming which was then followed by the cycling leg of the course along Barnard Street and then onto the final stage which was the run around the QEO.
Amanda Lowe’s children Aiden and Evie were participants in the TRYathlon.
“It’s great for them to get out and enjoy all different aspects of the event,” Mrs Lowe said.
“It’s good for children from Bendigo and other parts of regional Victoria to get out and enjoy some physical activity.
“It’s exciting for children to come participate in the TRYathlon without the aspect of having to compete against each other.”
GALLERIES FROM PREVIOUS YEARS
A troop of sporting stars were in attendance to support the participants at the TRYathlon.
Bendigo Spirit and Lady Braves basketball player Ashleigh Karaitiana was an ambassador for the event.
“So much has changed from my generation to this new generation, everyone these days are on their computers and Ipads,” she said.
“But for children to get up this early on a Sunday morning, to get out here and have a shot, it’s definitely worth it.
“The best thing about country children is they love giving it a go and they give it 100 per cent every time, it’s going to be a bright future.”
Carlton Football Club recruit Paddy Dow said it was great for children to have a non-competitive event where they were all able to finish the course and feel good about themselves.
“Getting active is a significant part of the improvement and future for the health of children.”
Melbourne Vixens player Khao Watts said she was overwhelmed when she saw so many children ready to participate in the TRYathlon.
“It’s wonderful for their self-esteem, to challenge themselves and have the pride of completing the event,” she said.
“The kids that come here today are going to make new friends and will be able to encourage them along the way.”