The EBOP Tri and Multisport Club has experienced a recent growth spurt, with its junior ranks expanding considerably.

The club began in 1987 as a triathlon club and expanded to include multisport in the 1990s, and is now regularly seeing up to 60 children take part in events.

The aim is to support and promote the sports of triathlon and multisport in the region, with some members going on to represent New Zealand on the international stage.

Most, however, are content to compete locally, enjoy the challenge, and strive toward personal goals.

Club president Kirsten Edmondson has been involved for the past four years and has noticed the growth firsthand.

“The club has certainly grown a lot since my first event with my son when he was four years old,” she said.

“There were around 20 participants back then, but now during our duathlon season (May–October), we regularly see 50 to 60 kids taking part.

“Our triathlon season (November-April) has to compete with surf club commitments, so that time of year is a little quieter, with around 30 to 35 kids competing,” said Edmondson.

As the number of young athletes has increased, so too has adult participation and volunteer support. Many parents stay on to compete in the adult race, which usually takes place straight after the children’s event.

“We have also seen alumni triathletes who once competed for New Zealand join the club. Like myself and my husband – who had never taken part in a triathlon before – we really got into it with our son. Families often set up picnic blankets and make a day of it,” Edmondson said.

Volunteers are always in demand, particularly with increased health and safety requirements and larger participant numbers meaning more marshals are needed than in previous years.

The rise in youth participation, and the resulting increase in adult involvement, has helped ease the pressure, with many parents stepping up to assist or marshal when required.

The club continues to welcome new members and can be contacted through its website at sporty.co.nz/ebopmultisport.