All kids aged seven to 12 are welcome at this upcoming triathlon event – no experience necessary! Photo: ACT Triathlon.
Kids triathlons are coming back to the capital, thanks to a dedicated event at the AIS this March.
Suitable for primary-aged children of all ability levels, the Canberra Kids Triathlon will see contenders swim, bike and run with their peers in a highly engaging environment.
Anurag Munian, state services manager for ACT Triathlon, is organising the event. He says it’s a prime opportunity to inspire the next generation of triathletes and fill an important gap in local junior sports.
“Canberra hasn’t had a dedicated junior triathlon club for years, so there aren’t many opportunities for kids who want to progress in the sport locally,” Anurag says.
“Our event is a revival of the Weet-Bix TRYathlon which regularly attracted more than a thousand kids. You can expect a fun-filled day of activity, in a world-class venue where many Australian champions have trained.
“You don’t need any experience. This is all about giving something new a go and kicking personal goals, rather than winning a competition.”
Races are split into two age groups. Kids aged seven to nine will go first, followed by 10 to 12 year olds.
Each race starts with a 100-metre swim in the iconic AIS Aquatic Centre indoor pool. Then it’s a quick transition onto the bikes for a safe, closed cycle loop through well-marked fields.
Younger kids are set to ride 2.5 km, with older contenders cycling 3.5 km. Friendly marshals and traffic controllers will be there every step of the way to guide their path.
Finally comes the most exciting part of the triathlon – the run. Participants will cover 1 km and 1.5 km respectively before experiencing the thrill of a proud, cheering crowd as they cross the finish line.
The Canberra Kids Triathlon aims to encourage a love of health and fitness in the next generation, providing a substantial challenge that rewards contenders with a rush of endorphins and a serious self-confidence boost.
Every child will receive a certificate for showing up and giving it their all.
“It’s so incredibly important for us to show our kids how fun an active lifestyle can be through sport,” Anurag says.
“Events like this one teach kids about goal-setting, resilience, determination and pride. They’re also a great place to make new friends, and that counts for parents as well.
“We’d also like to thank ACT Sport & Rec for their support of our event, which was made possible through their generous Club Enhancement Program grant.”
There’s a surprisingly large and passionate triathlon community in Canberra. Anurag says the beauty of the sport is there’s always something competitors can improve on.
“You don’t have to be the fastest runner, best cyclist or strongest swimmer to enjoy a triathlon. You have to get out there and give it everything you’ve got.
“All your kids will need for this event is their own bike, helmet, swimming goggles, and a good pair of running shoes. We will take care of the rest!”
Canberra Kids Triathlon 2025 will run from 7 am to 11 am on Sunday, 23 March, at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). Tickets are $25 per child, available through AusTriathlon. Bookings close on 19 March at 11:59 pm.
