There’s something rather special about watching kids cross a finish line, especially when they’ve challenged themselves to do something they never thought they could. And that’s exactly what the Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon is all about.
The popular event is returning to Mount Maunganui on Sunday 29th November, giving local youngsters the chance to swap the sidelines for the sporting arena and have a go at swimming, cycling and running their way to the finish line.
Around 1,500 young athletes are expected to descend on Arataki Park for what promises to be a morning full of excitement, encouragement and plenty of proud smiles. And while there will undoubtedly be some competitive little spirits, the emphasis is firmly on participation rather than winning.
In fact, that’s been the heart of the TRYathlon since it first began in 1992 with just 500 children. More than half a million Kiwi kids have since taken part, making it something of a rite of passage for generations of young New Zealanders.
Dame Valerie, who understands the value of sport and the opportunities it can create, says the most important thing is giving children the confidence to try.
“Sport has given me so much in life, but it all started with someone giving me the opportunity to have a go. As a mum, I know how important it is for our kids to feel confident, supported and proud of themselves, no matter their ability,” she says.
And that’s the beauty of the TRYathlon. Children don’t need to be accomplished swimmers, confident cyclists or budding athletes to take part. It’s designed for all abilities, with age-appropriate courses that allow everyone to participate at their own pace.
Children aged 6–15 can enter individually or team up with a friend, with teams of two sharing the swimming, cycling and running challenges. Every participant who makes it to the finish line earns a very special Weet-Bix TRYathlon medal – a little reminder of what can happen when you give something a go.
Proudly recognised as the world’s largest triathlon series for under-15s, the event is about so much more than three sporting disciplines. It’s an opportunity for children to build confidence, discover what they’re capable of, enjoy being active and, most importantly, have fun.
So, if you’ve got a youngster who would love a new challenge, or perhaps just needs a little encouragement to step outside their comfort zone, this could be just the thing.
After all, you don’t have to be the fastest, strongest or most experienced to be a TRY star. You just have to be willing to give it a go!
Event details
What: Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon
When: Sunday 29 November 2026, from 7am
Where: Arataki Park, Mount Maunganui
Who: Children aged 6–15 years
Registrations: Now open
Find out more and register HERE.
