Cromwell’s Goldfields Primary School is gearing up for its major fundraiser, a fun kids’ duathlon this Sunday (October 30).

Young athletes from across Central aged from preschoolers to 13 years can take part in the annual biking and running race, and one lucky entrant will win a bike.

Friends of the school committee chair Natasha Sinclair said it’s a fun family day out, with a bit of healthy competition on the side.

“Every year we watch the wee four year olds lining up at the starting line, with their older siblings helping them figure it all out.”

Some kids have never done anything like this before as well as those who are more seasoned competitors, and you can enter irrespective of where you go to school.

“The races give all the young athletes a chance to stretch their legs and have a go, cheered on by everyone there on the day.”

There’ll be a 50-metre bike, 50-metre run for day’s youngest competitors, through to a three-kilometre bike, two-kilometre run for the 11 to 13 year olds.

The first race is at 10am, and the courses all start and finish on the school field, with some older competitors racing on surrounding greenways.

Competitors have the choice to take up the challenge solo, completing both the bike and run themselves, or grab a mate and compete as part of a team.

According to Sport New Zealand there are more than 900,000 children and young people aged 5-18 in New Zealand, and only seven per cent are meeting the New Zealand guidelines for physical activity through physical education, sport, exercise and active recreation.

Community events such as this are a great way to encourage active participation in cycling and running for tamariki and rangitahi.

Organisers said they ​​want as many Central kids as possible to know about it and have the chance to take part.

Every entry goes into the draw to win a $500 Bike it Now voucher. Spot prizes and other prizes are up for grabs including gondola and luge trips, go-kart rides and restaurant vouchers.

An ice cream truck and a coffee van promise a caffeine boost for parents or a post race treat to entice youngsters to the start line. Bring some coins as parents will be selling sausages and bacon sandwiches.

Entry is $20 for 5-13 years, pre-schoolers $5 and teams of two $40 ($20 each, team members must be from the same age group/gender).

You can enter online or in person on the day at Goldfields School, 25b Gilling Place from 9am.