Thousands of Kiwi kids will receive medals for completing backyard triathlons, after their races were cancelled during coronavirus lockdown.
The annual Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon series was one of many sporting events that fell victim to the COVID-19 pandemic, with races at Palmerston North, Hibiscus Coast, New Plymouth and Bay of Islands called off.
But almost 3000 entrants carried out the swimming/cycling/running journey within their bubbles, many providing video evidence of their efforts.
Some completed the swim in bathtubs or splashed buckets of water over themselves, as they swam on the ground.
"We were blown away by their ability to adapt to the situation and take the initiative for their own event, and thought we'd better stick to the tradition of providing them with a medal!" says Sanitarium spokesman Peter Davis.
"The TRYathlon events have always been a place where families come together and these DIY triathlons have shown that if you have a great attitude, you can achieve whatever you set out to.
"We are so impressed with the motivation of these children, but also the wonderful support that their parents have given them too."
Organisers may now include a 'virtual' category in future editions of the series, now entering its 29th year.
