Scorching hot sporting success in Lincolnshire
ALMOST 700 schoolchildren from across Lincolnshire crossed the finish line and completed their very first triathlon as part of a special sporting event aimed at inspiring young people to get active.
Hosted by the Brownlee Foundation, the children travelled from around the county last week to take part on what was the hottest day of the year so far.
It’s the first time the event has been held in Lincolnshire and was hosted in partnership with rural broadband provider Quickline Communications who is rolling out fast and reliable internet connectivity to Lincolnshire communities.
Held at the One NK Leisure Centre in North Hykeham, Lincoln, the mini triathlon gave children aged nine to 11 the chance to enjoy a fun and inclusive sporting experience.
The Brownlee Foundation was founded by Olympic triathletes Alistair and Jonny Brownlee and aims to inspire children from all backgrounds to enjoy sport, encourage them to lead active lifestyles and benefit from all the opportunities sport provides.
Andy Harris, teacher at Dunholme St Chad’s Primary School, took a class of Year 6 pupils to participate.
He said: “It’s such a great opportunity for the children to have a go at something they haven’t experienced before and something that might be a bit outside their comfort zone.”
Quickline CEO Sean Royce volunteered on the day alongside a team of colleagues from the East-Yorkshire based broadband provider who helped ensure the day ran according to plan.
He said: “It’s a fantastic event that gives all the children an amazing chance to try out something new and we were delighted to be able to get involved, supporting through sponsorship and also give a helping hand with our own volunteers.”
Charis Palmer-Smeaton from the Brownlee Foundation said: “Our events are non-competitive and inclusive, designed to give every single child the opportunity to get involved.
"It's so rewarding to see the children getting involved, trying something new and most of all enjoying themselves and encouraging their classmates.
“As a charity we can’t run our activities without support and so we’re really grateful to Quickline for their sponsorship and their volunteers which meant we could bring the mini triathlon to a new venue here in Lincolnshire for the first time.”