Hundreds of young athletes tackle duathlon
Otto Popoali’i was first in the second race. Photo: Supplied.
The annual Harcourts Marlborough Kids Duathlon attracted nearly 400 young athletes - and three times as many supporters – to Brancott Valley on Sunday, October 12. Under breezy but bright conditions, children from schools across the region lined up at the start line buzzing with energy, fuelled by encouragement, and buoyed by community pride from start to finish.
“This event is all about kids having a go,” said Tom O’Connor, Chairperson of the Harcourts Marlborough Kids Duathlon Committee. “It’s such a positive, supportive atmosphere - everyone’s cheering each other on, even out on the course.”
First-timers and seasoned speedsters tackled both the short and long course events with grit and determination. Always a highlight, the ‘Beat the Bear’ challenge drew huge cheers as the Harcourts bear was well and truly beaten this year.
Over 200 spot prizes, including the coveted Bikefit Marlborough spot prize bike which was won by Ollie Rendle, were dished out thanks the support of more than 100 local businesses. The school participation prize went to Linkwater School, recognised for their strong turnout and team spirit.
The event’s success was thanks to an incredible team of volunteers - from registrations and transitions to marshalling and timing - who made the day run like clockwork.
“It’s something you’d expect from a team of professionals,” said O’Connor. “But it’s actually local parents and community members, all volunteering their time to give our kids a day they’ll never forget.”