Almost 200 children took part in the annual kids’ duathlon in Cromwell on Sunday (October 19), competing across age divisions from preschool to 13 years old.

Participants completed a combination of biking and running, either individually or in teams, in an event designed to celebrate participation, perseverance, and community spirit.

For ten-year-old Zac Kirkman, the fun bit was “going fast”, particularly on his bike, where he reckons he “passed lots and lots of people”.

Not so fun, getting the stitch: “But I had a good strategy, when I breathed in, I put my arms up, and when I breathed out, I put my arms down, and it helped,” he said.

The boys’ race begins for the nine and 10 year olds. Image: The Central App

Eight-year-old Rosa Lipscombe raced with a mate.

She said biking on the grass was tough, and the “most fun thing was coming second with my friend”.

Other highlights for the young competitor: “I passed three people in the race…I also got a Mr Whippy and a spot prize,” she said.

Quinn Connelly, 4, on his bike at the Kids Duathlon. Image: The Central App

The duathlon was organised by Goldfields Friends of the School (FOTS), a group of parents and teachers who work together on fundraising events for the Cromwell-based primary school.

Parent organiser Liz Herring said the success of the day came down to a big effort from lots of people.

“It takes months of planning from our amazing FOTS committee, the help of volunteers on the day, generous support from local businesses, and of course the kids who show up full of excitement and energy,” she said.

Tom Browne, 9, on the running leg of his race. Image: The Central App

Goldfields School principal Anna Harrison said events like the duathlon that bring the community together while raising funds make a huge difference to the school.

“They provide opportunities for us to think big with projects like redeveloping our school hall as well as lots of the extras that school budgets don’t cover that make a difference for our students,” she said.

“I love seeing our children, their families, and participants and their families from outside our school community, come together.”

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