The 2008 Triathlon - 6th July 2008

215 children aged between 8 and 15 took part in the 7th New Forest Junior Triathlon, hosted and marshalled by the Club. As organiser, may I thank everyone who assisted before the event and on the day to make it an enjoyable and successful triathlon in spite of the inclement weather. We received lots of thanks from the parents and schools and many children are keen to return next year with their friends in a school team.

The event, held in partnership with New Forest Schools Partnership was held at Hounsdown School as an initiative to encourage the development of triathlon, one of the fastest growing sports in the UK. There was an excellent turnout of 36 teams from schools around Hampshire, a further increase from 2007.

The team competition was won by Wildern School, with Locks Heath Junior School runners up and Pilgrims School of Winchester in third place. It is hoped to further develop the participation of school teams in future years to encourage the concept of ‘try a tri’ and provide a catalyst for an increased participation of triathlon particularly from New Forest schools.

A good number of New Forest schools were represented this year with Orchard Junior School in Hythe, near Southampton and Fordingbridge Junior School entering the largest number of children.
Local junior triathlon club, Chapel Tri Stars also had a large contingent of entries.

All the children received a medal and a water bottle for their efforts. Trophies were presented to the first three children in each age group and to the first three school teams.
A full list of the results and photographs of winners is available on this website.

Bruce Elkins
Totton Running Club