Julia Creek children are lacing up their running shoes and getting themselves ready for the annual Junior Triathlon at the Julia Creek Dirt n Dust Festival.
McKinlay Shire Sport and Recreation Officer Renee Hick has been organising triathlon training for children and adults who are getting ready to run in the races this weekend.
With junior team registrations increasing this year, the organisers are heartened to see kids of all ages getting out there and participating in a fit and healthy lifestyle.
Ms Hick set up weekly training to help the kids prepare for their races, including swimming, running and biking around the same area that the triathlon is being held.
On Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings before school begins the dedicated and motivated youngsters of Julia Creek get up extra early to run their practice.
On Mondays the 4-6 year olds train, then on Wednesday the 7-9 year olds train, while all other age groups train on the Friday.
Ms Hick says not only does the training help with their overall fitness it also helps the younger children prepare for everything that happens in between on the day.
“We practice getting everything in the right order, so they can get used to it,” Ms Hick said.
“Sometimes the younger kids might get out of the pool and then put their helmet on first to jump on the bike, before putting on their shirts. Just little things like that we get them used to doing for the day.”
A mock triathlon took place Monday afternoon to get the kids used to the conditions. The council closed off roads to ensure the kids could travel the real race course ahead of Friday’s event.
Coordinator of the Daikin Marwill Junior Triathlon, Lindsay Malone, said the kids were really excited for the event.
“It’s amazing that they’re getting out there and living a healthy life, getting ready for the triathlon.
“In 2017 our competitors are coming from across the state - as far south as the Gold Coast, throughout central Queensland and far north as Cairns - we can’t wait to welcome these kids to Outback Queensland - Julia Creek.”