Corus, British Triathlon's premier sponsor, is launching a new initiative, Corus Kids of Steel, a series of 12 triathlon events across the UK, specifically designed for children aged 8-13. The first event will take place on Sunday, 29th April at Plympton Pool near Plymouth.

The Corus Kids of Steel events aim to encourage kids to experience the sport of triathlon, and help them get active in a fun and safe environment. At a time when childhood obesity is at an all time high, Corus and British Triathlon are aiding the government’s Healthy School Programme through giving kids an opportunity to take up a new sport whilst learning about healthy living.

The Plympton event will include a 60m swim, 2km cycle and a 800m run over a course around Harewood Park. A number of local schools have been invited to participate and organizers are expecting 400 local pupils to attend.

Over 10,000 children are set to participate in the regional events, with disabled kids being able to compete; all a child needs is a swim suit, t-shirt, towel, bike, helmet and trainers. Children who find that they enjoy their triathlon experience will be able to get further information on the sport through the British Triathlon Regional Development Officer and volunteers attending the event, and will be able to join Plymouth Junior Triathlon Club who offer regular training sessions at Ridgeway School.

Plymouth Junior Triathlon Club will be hosting a training session at Ridgeway School the day before the event, offering coaching and instruction on how to complete the Corus Kids of Steel event.

The series will be traveling to a number of destinations throughout the summer including London, Birmingham, Sheffield, Middlesbrough, Essex, Corby, Salford, Scunthorpe, Livingstone, Crawley & Newport.

British Triathlon Federation President, Sarah Springman OBE said:
“The Corus Kids of Steel series is a very exciting prospect for triathlon in Britain. Not only are we giving children an opportunity to try out a new sport and offering them advice as to healthy living, we also hope to discover some young stars of the future.”