Triathlon Schools Series expects more participants

Ellina Mhlanga

Zimpapers Sports Hub

ORGANISERS of the Triathlon Zimbabwe’s Schools Series, that got underway over the weekend with over 100 young athletes drawn from different schools competing at Mount Pleasant Pool, are hoping for increased participants.

The series ran alongside the second selection event, but for the schools it was the first race of three that are held throughout the season.

Seven schools that competed last season — Wise Owl, Hellenic, Springvale House, Abbeys, St Michael’s, Harare International School and St John’s Prep School — were back in action on Sunday.

The schools accumulate points over three races to determine the winners at the end of the season.

Triathlon Zimbabwe’s schools commission representative Tanyaradzwa Kasaira said they had a positive start, with all the schools that were part of the 2024-2025 programme bouncing back.

“It’s a good start to the 2025-2026 season. We had a huge turnout from the schools.

“Basically, we have got seven schools that came in. It was a good start to the season.

“We are hoping that it’s going to continue throughout the season,” said Kasaira.

The initiative is aimed at developing the sport from grassroots and creating interest with the hope that the young athletes stay in the sport.

Triathlon Zimbabwe are looking at increasing their numbers.

Sunday’s race was hosted by St John’s and the next one scheduled for November will be hosted by Abbey’s.

“Going into the next event, I am hoping that we have more kids coming in and keeping a positive turnout.

“I am happy that the kids are now well-versed with the transition and rules of the triathlon, which is a positive, as they will keep growing into it.

“And we hope these kids, in the near future, will be our new champions, and we are keeping them safe in the sport,” said Kasaira.

The association is working on engaging more schools to join the series.

Kasaira said it has not been easy as they are also competing with other sporting disciplines.

“Schools are doing so many sports, so bringing triathlon to other schools is quite difficult. But I am happy that we are getting positive feedback.

“And like I always say, our doors are open to any school that really wants to do triathlon,” said Kasaira.

St John’s are the reigning champions.