MORE than 50 nippers and juniors attended the inaugural Whitmore Bay SLSC Novice Triathlon which was held at Maindy swimming pool and cycling track on Saturday, May 9.

Transition areas were marked out, gleaming bikes (and scooters) were racked and all competitors numbered and marshals in place.

With ages ranging from under seven to 16 they were split into different distance groups.

There was plenty of smiles and excitement and encouragement and cheers from parents, grandparents and friends as the whistle blew to begin the swim section.

There were some impressive times recorded in the pool and it was then a quick change ready for the cycle stage. Some used the track banking to gain additional speed during the ride whilst other little legs powered round on their scooters.

Next came the important transition from bike to run and with only a few signs of wobbly legs, every single one of their young triathletes completed the course picking up a well-deserved medal and bag of sweets for their hard work, effort and great determination.

The day was rounded off with a celebratory fundraising BBQ at Whitmore Bay lifeguard hut.

A great day was had by all involved, the children are very keen to undertake a second event next year, which was deemed excellent team and fitness preparation for the up and coming surf lifesaving season in 2015.

A big thank goes to all involved in the planning and running of such a successful event.