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Smiling Ironkids

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The sheer excitement and exhilaration from the parents and participants at the 2013 Pritt IRONKIDS South Africa at the McArthur swimming pools and Leisure Centre in the early afternoon of Saturday 13 April was heartfelt and fun-filled by many of the spectators.

The first wave race started at 12:00 for kids with special needs. The concept of this race is all-inclusive, making the little ones feel as heroic as their IRONMAN heroes. As part of the Spec-Savers IRONMAN South Africa, everyone is a winner; all participants receive a T-shirt, medal and a goodie bag from Pritt IRONKIDS SA.

The length of the swim and run was determined by the entrant’s age. Kids between the ages of 6-9 years swam a distance of 60m, followed by a 1.2km run, while the 10-13 years age group took part in a 100m long swim and a 2km run.

Jeff Behr said, “I’m excited for my son – this is great not just for PE, but getting them [kids] to be fit at a young age.” Jeff’s son, six year-old Jarryd Behr from St Marks said he that he was excited about the race and was mostly looking forward to the swim.

The kids in the first wave start were assisted by the friendly Pritt IRONKIDS volunteers. Jenna Hiscock from Elsen Academy took part in the first wave. Jenna had a knee-cartilage surgery on 28 March this year. Dad, Reben Hiscock said, “She started complaining about a sore knee. When the doctor scanned it, surgery was recommended.” Even that didn’t put-down Jenna’s enthusiasm in taking part in the aquathlon. “I am very excited and looking forward to the run,” said eight year-old Jenna Hiscock who raced the 1.2km run on her crutches.

Sadly, all good things do come to an end and Johan Coetzee wasn’t happy about that. “It was too short, I want to do it seven times over,” said the very confident 6 year-old. Anna Huang, 13, a volunteer from Pearson High School said, “It’s exciting and fun to see the kids running and feeling proud.”

Ironkids
Ironkids still full of energy as they jump for joy. Tayla Foong
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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.