The Star : Wednesday October 22, 2008

By NG WEI LOON

TRIKIDZ will complete the third and final leg of their triathlon clinic and race for children aged five to 15 years at Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia in Sungai Besi on Nov 29 and 30.

Race director Hairul Azwar Hashim said that 100% success had been attained with strong support from parents in spurring the beginners in finishing the race thus far.

"Newcomers are afraid of having a go at the triathlon because they are intimidated by the swimming discipline. We are allowing the children to use swimming aids such as kickboards and other floatation devices."

Best foot forward: A participant in transition to prepare for the final running leg.

"The lifeguards on duty will also ensure the children's safety in the pool. They can compete in any type of bicycle for the cycling leg. But, they are required to put on their helmets," he added.

The opening leg of the year drew 20 participants and this was followed by an increase of 10 entries at the recent event.

From the previous two meets, the organisers have identified three budding triathletes Mohd Zairin Manan Zulkarnain, Fatin Natasha and Nur Iman Sofia Zulkarnain with a sound background in swimming.

The trio have also done well in the junior sprint races over the distance of 400m swim, 15km cycle and 2km run at the triathlons in Port Dickson and Malacca.

For the upcoming event, the organisers can accommodate up to 100 competitors.

On the run: The young competitors moving forward to complete the race.

The five age-group categories are five to six years, seven to eight years, nine to 10 years, 11 to 12 years and 13 to 15 years.

Entry fee is RM50 for each participant. Entry closes on November 21.

On the eve of the race, the youngsters will get the opportunity to pick up valuable pointers from two International Triathlon Union (ITU) certified coaches - Ungku Azhar and Stephanie Chok - at a clinic.

Besides educating the participants on proper transition techniques for the event comprising three disciplines (swim, cycle and run), the duo will be sharing their knowledge and expertise on nutrition, pacing and racing tactics.

Pedal power: A girl participant covering the distance on the cycling course.

"We have allocated four segments for the clinic. Although it is not compulsory for the participants to attend, we are encouraging them to turn up because it will help them to prepare for the race with a better understanding of the sport."

"We are adopting the distances outlined by the ITU for the respective age-groups. Our aim is to create an avenue for the children to have a feel of combining the three disciplines together," Azwar said.

Next year, the organisers intend to introduce the initiative outside the Klang Valley and conduct similar programmes in Johor, Sabah and Sarawak.