The Samoa Triathlon hosted a very successful Samoa Superkids Aquathon race for children aged 12 years and under last weekend. 

The aquathon consists of swimming and running. There were four different races and distances based on age group. 

The national team and development squad triathletes were Ocean Guardians for the children, accompanying them in the water and helping them through their race. 

Race director Laumata Mulitalo said it was a fascinating scene to see the children enjoying the races and the smiles on their faces were worth it. 

"To see so many children turn up to race with excitement on their faces, and crossing the blue finish line with a high spirit is success! Praise God for an injury-free event. It was a successful event too because our Triathlon family and supporting parents joined us to help set up or cheer on our athletes. Everyone had fun."

Recently 10 triathletes who were accompanying the children attended a training camp and raced in New Zealand. They are now better equipped with more skills and race experience that they can share with others like how they did in the aquathon races.

National team manager Lani Young expressed how proud she was of the triathletes and how they aided the children participating in the Samoa Superkids Aquathon.

"I'm proud of all our triathletes and how they helped the children. They guided them through the course and offered encouragement. This is how you grow local athletes, by giving the children of Samoa role models in our sport that they can relate to, and safe, fun activities like this. It's also so important for our triathletes to give back to the community, to help in this work to grow triathlon."

In March they held a two-week 'Learn to Swim' course for children with the assistance of teacher Brent McCarthy who volunteered his time and skills to teach the kids. Several of them then participated in the aquathon. 

Every child who participated in the Superkids Aquathon event received a new swim cap and a gift from World Triathlon. Forty-two children took part, and for most of them, it was their first ever time to do an aquathon.  Many parents came to cheer for their children as they tried a new sport.  

The Federation provided refreshments for everyone after the races. Triathlon Samoa members also held a cleanup activity the day before, to prepare the site for the children, clearing debris and rubbish from the ocean and the seawall area.