About 200 students represented 21 schools from across the Bay of Plenty to swim, bike and run in the Give It a Try Triathlon at Omokoroa Domain.

Pahoia School hosted the event for the third time on Sunday with focuses on participation, fun, getting kids active and providing an individual challenge in a safe environment.

Children competing in the Give It a Try Triathlon.

Principal Steve Wadsworth says because of the success of the event over the past two years, Sport Bay of Plenty came onboard this year with the event now a regular fixture on the WBOP inter-school programme.

'Children aged between five and 12 participated with each receiving a race wristband, medal, certificate and goody bag.

'The event was, once again, very well received with both children and parents expressing how much fun it was. There was even a Splash ‘n' Dash for 11 keen parents.”

Steve says many children had not participated in such an event before, so for them it was a huge achievement.

'At the end of the day heaps of spot prizes were given away. Harrison Tisch, 5, from Matua School was the winner of a child's bike generously donated from Koops Cycles.

'The event was wonderfully supported by staff and parent volunteers who helped out as course marshals, registration officials and stall operators.”