Taking part in the Weet-bix Kids TRYathlon is a rite of passage for many Kiwi children.  But for 100 tamariki from three West Auckland Special Schools, the opportunity to experience this iconic event means more than many can imagine.

Students from Oaklynn, Arohanui and Ko Taku Reo Schools came together for a special Weet-bix Kids TRYathlon day in February at Massey’s Moire Park, taking on the challenge of a course uniquely adapted to their abilities.  With wheelchair corridors, a sensory tunnel and elevated cargo nets, the course design ensured every child was able to fully participate and cross the finish line.

“Society isn’t designed to welcome everyone equally. From physical spaces to social attitudes, barriers still prevent full participation for many of us – particularly our disabled communities. But this event, which challenges norms and redefines inclusion in sport and recreation, has etched a special memory for every participant,” explains Shanley Joyce, School Systems Lead at Sport Waitākere.

“The joy on the faces of the tamariki said it all.  They were literally overflowing with excitement at the start line and even as tiredness took hold towards the finish, the sense of accomplishment was clear. This was truly an event with a difference – less about sport and all about reconsidering what inclusion means.”

The day was split into two parts, with juniors taking to the course in the morning, followed by seniors in the afternoon.  Kaiako, therapists, teacher aides and carers all joined in on the action.

For Oaklynn Specialist School Associate Principal, Emma Cutts, this event was much more than another fixture on the school calendar.

“The feeling of being included and able to participate in events like this – and receiving special taonga like medals and uniforms - is incredibly special for our learners, and not something we can easily create on our own. We’re especially grateful that we’ve been able to compete several years in a row now as we see our learners become more confident and keen to give it a go. Last year one of our rangatahi just wanted to watch but this year he completed two rounds of the course. Awesome progress that we couldn't make without this great community support!”

The support of Sport Waitākere’s Healthy Active Learning team – who focus on ensuring teachers have the tools and confidence to help all students have quality PE and physical activity experiences -  has helped make this event possible, alongside funding from Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa.

 “We are focused on ensuring all tamariki can benefit from positive physical activity – and that includes those with disabilities.  Sometimes students don’t get to participate in health and PE lessons due to varying barriers, even factors such as teachers finding it too challenging to bring them outside,” says Shanley.

“Events like this Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon show the sense of accomplishment for tamariki that comes with physical achievement – on their terms, in their way.  This focus on inclusion and belonging is critical – so every child can say ‘I can do that’ and feel the joy of movement, the pride of achievement and the support of a community that sees and celebrates them.”

Article added: Monday 05 May 2025