On Saturday 12 June 2021 the Vistra Jersey Kids’ Triathlon welcomed over five hundred children, aged 6-13, to Les Quennevais Sports and Leisure Centre, to participate in the eighth triathlon event in aid of Blood Cancer UK – Jersey Branch.
The event saw children of all abilities swim, bike and run their way to the finish line, many of whom were experiencing the triathlon buzz for the first time. A real high point of the day was watching children support and encourage their friends around the course, demonstrating the non-competitive, supportive, and fun atmosphere this event creates. Jo Carpenter, a spectator of the event said “The defining moment for me was when my niece and all her friends helped one of their friends, who had to pull out of the bike part, run the run section. They all did it together to support her, so she could finish it. That’s what teamwork is all about and it brought a tear to many.”
The event was delighted to welcome Harry De Gruchy-Wilson, Cameron Glover and Mackenzie Glover, who have special needs and with the support of the fantastic team of marshals, were able to participate safely with huge smiles on their faces. Pam Glover, mum of Cameron and Mackenzie, commented “Being autistic with special needs means a lot of club doors are closed to Cameron and Mackenzie. So being allowed to take part in the Vistra Kids’ Triathlon was massive for them and not once did they feel different to the other kids! It was a massive achievement for both of them and one they (and mum and dad) will never forget. They loved every minute of it and are already training for next year.”
To cap off a hugely successful event, there was an outstanding fundraising effort from all children, with the event raising its highest amount to date. The organisers are ecstatic that this years’ event has raised in the region of £15,000 for Blood Cancer UK – Jersey Branch, a charity which funds the research into all blood cancers and treatment and are making huge progress with cell replacement and gene technology. The event wants to recognise our top fundraiser, Jasper Styles, who raised an incredible £870. Jasper commented “This charity is very close to my heart as my mum was diagnosed with Lymphoma when I was 7 months old. Thankfully the treatment was successful, and my mum is now fit and well. This charity means a lot, as they keep progressing diagnosis and treatment.”
Chris Rowland, the Chairman of Blood Cancer UK – Jersey Branch commented “What a marvellous day we all had at the Kids Triathlon. It is amazing to think that from the seed of an idea eight years ago the event has flourished to such a degree, even after a year’s break because of covid 19. We hope always to get bigger and better but this has only been successful, and will continue to be successful, because of the fantastic support and sheer hard work of the team that surrounds Blood Cancer, Jersey. The support from all the clubs, 3D Events, David Holmes and especially Vistra is beyond compare. Our sincere thanks to them all.”
Clive Wright, the Managing Director of Vistra Channel Islands commented “Vistra is a proud
sponsor of the Blood Cancer Triathlon, and in such challenging times this was also a much needed outlet for the Children and Families for our local community, as well as continuing to support such a great cause”. Organisers would like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to everyone who made this event possible. Thanks to Vistra and Blood Cancer UK – Jersey Branch for all your support; the wonderful volunteers and marshals who helped make the day an organised, safe, and enjoyable event; to Les Quennevais Sports Centre for their facilities and co-operation; and to all the parents/guardians who made the day possible. The children were kindly
supported by local sporting clubs; Jersey Swimming Club, Jersey Cycling Association Youth Academy, Jersey Park Run and the Aztec Jersey Tristars to guide and protect them through the three disciplines; swim, bike and run.
The event hopes to welcome even more children to the 2022 event, which is due to take place on Saturday 11 June 2022.