Over 170 young people between the ages of 8-15 took part in ninth Bedford Junior Aquathlon at Robinson Pool on Sunday.

Participants swam lengths of the pool, before changing on the pool side and then leaving through the back door to run laps of the park.

The event was organised by both Bedford Borough Council Sports Development Unit and Galeforce Events, and offered an opportunity for children to have a go at a new, exciting, dual event.

Competitors were divided into various age groups and were timed from the start of the swim to the end of the running.

Amy Rance, Sports Development Officer and Events Co-ordinator, at Bedford Borough Council, said: "It was fantastic to see so many young people taking part and especially good that many were first time competitors that just wanted to have a go, finish the challenge, and enjoy participating.

"There were a lot of parents who were very surprised to see how quickly their children can get changed when they really want to!"

The popular event ran in conjunction with a senior triathlon event, the Bedfordshire Sprint Triathlon, and meant that some of the new juniors were running side by side with National athletes from across the country.

There were medals for all the competitors and there were trophies for the top placed male and female in each age category.
Rance added: "The most important thing was to run an event that young people would enjoy.

"All of the competitors were given medals and certificates of participation in their goodie bags. The feedback has been very good and we will be running two more events in 2010."