THE third Warwickshire Children's Triathlon is being held at Shipston on Sunday, May, 26.

The event, which is run by Stratford Sharks, provides an opportunity for local children aged eight-14 to have a go at this increasingly popular sport.

The competition, which is held at Shipston High School, involves swimming, bicycling and running. But the unusual aspect of it is that there is no a break in between so part of the skill is learning to change rapidly into T-Shirt and trainers immediately after the swim.

Parents, used to the struggle to get them ready for school, will be amazed how quickly the kids can get dressed.

The Warwickshire event has grown rapidly, attracting 80 children in 2000 rising to an expected 200 this year.

This success has resulted in the event being selected by the British Triathlon Association as one of five events forming part of this year's National Children's Series.

Event organiser Andy Smith said: "Being part of the National Series is a very welcome recognition of the popularity and success of the Warwickshire event.

"There will be competitors coming from around the country. But it remains very much a local event and we are keen for as many children as possible from the local area to take part."

There are four different age groups with the eight-year-olds swimming 40 metres, biking 800 and running 400, through to 300, 6000 and 2400 metres respectively for the 14-year- olds.

For more information or an application form contact Andy Smith on 01608 661279 or andy@lizand.freeserve.co.uk