2018 Triathlon

On Saturday, 19th May 2018, the MKV community took on another triathlon challenge which was organised by the Parents, Teachers and Friends of the International School of Ahafo (PTFA) with generous sponsorship from Mr. & Mrs. Clint and Charmaine Jennings, Newmont Ghana Gold Limited, DRA Global Limited, All Terrain Services (ATS) and Mantrac.

A triathlon can be an imposing event; triathletes need to swim, bike and run consecutively. However, triathlons do promote active and healthy lifestyle choices, build resilience in young athletes particularly as they have to focus on the finish line and undertake an achievable personal challenge. This is why the PTFA is committed to the annual triathlon and the event is getting bigger and better each year. 

Prior to the event, there was a briefing meeting for marshalls and all participants on safety and course completion standards. Children were put in teams and each team wore a different jersey to foster team spirit and for ease of identification. For the first time, participation was also open to adults who could enter as solo participants or in teams of two to three people

 All triathletes had to complete a full triathlon (swim, bike and run) over the distance determined by their age or class. There were water stations on the course and at the finish and family and friends gathered to cheer triathletes on. Based on lessons from previous years, some adjustments were made to the format.

The triathlon began at 6.30am prompt and races ran concurrently so we could finish early. Some adjustments were made to the format this year and the details are in the table below:

The children’s triathlon was closely followed by the adult session and triathletes had to complete a 200m swim, 6km cycle and 2km run course. Once all competitions had ended, formal presentations of medals were conducted under one of the pool pergolas, which had been adorned with flags of different nationalities and sponsors.

 All athletes received a finisher’s medal but these first, second and third placegetters deserve special mention:

At the end of the day, we learnt that completing a triathlon in a team is really satisfying and when we commit to some training, we will find greater confidence and determination to cross the finish line and celebrate our achievement. Well done to all our triathletes!

From 10.00am, all triathletes, marshalls and well-wishers where treated to a sumptuous braai (a South African style of barbeque) in reward for their tireless efforts. There were flame-grilled meats, boerewors (sausage), burgers, drinks and so much more. It was great to see the whole community feasting and relaxing after a testing morning.

Special thank you to all parents, particularly the dads who were well represented, teachers and friends of the school who helped out in diverse ways towards a successful event. Mrs. Charmaine Jennings deserves the highest commendation for executing another seamless triathlon.