On Sunday, 26th March, for the ninth year running, Kolbe entered Year 11 students in a community-wide Triathlon, at Coogee Beach, conducted by the Fremantle Triathlon Club.
For Physical Education Studies (General) students, this event was part of the performance assessment for the course. The 300m Swim, 10km Cycle and 2.5km Run, tests their skills, race strategies and knowledge of rules, for which they have been training in Term 1 lessons.
Students from our Year 11 Certificate II Sport & Recreation Course were also included. This gave them valuable experience participating in a community event, with particular emphasis on certain aspects involved in organising a large-scale competition, including the volunteers, logistics, timing, first aid and surf rescue, to name a few.
Approximately 300 competitors took part, including other schools, corporate entrants, all age groups, from beginners through to the serious triathletes.
Students spent the first eight weeks of this term, learning what it takes to become a triathlete, preparing for the three disciplines (swimming, cycling and running) through both practical and theory lessons. In the many beach, pool and fitness sessions at the College and off-campus, students developed the mental skills and endurance required to succeed in their first ever triathlon. Other important learning included personal preparation, managing your equipment, and nutrition planning.
As we arrived on the buses to Coogee beach, with the sun not even up yet, there was plenty of excitement and adrenaline among our competitors. Conditions turned out perfect as we strolled to the sand ready to start by 7am. Still waters and dry, flat roads provided assistance, with competitors producing some impressive times. All of our students should be very proud of their efforts, overcoming nerves, sweat, stingers and lactic acid.
As a group, it proved a great confidence booster and bonding exercise, with plenty of peer support and laughs. The Year 11’s have really embraced their opportunities in our courses. Congratulations to everyone!
Thanks goes to Mr Russell, Mr Celenza and Mr Athanassiou for organising and preparing their classes and making the arrangements for this special event over the weekend.
