The Development Programme runs two groups throughout the year. If you are starting out in triathlon the fun blocks are a great way to give triathlon a go in a fun and friendly environment. As the young person develops their interest and experience in triathlon they may be suitable to join the Development Squad. 

Fun Blocks take place throughout the summer season from October to April each year, from Term 4, through to Term 1. The Fun Blocks are aligned with key events, such as the Weet-bix Tri (22 Nov 2020) and Marra Sprint Tri (14 March 2021). Training sessions take place on Wednesday at Pilot Bay. Sessions usually start around 5pm and last for 1 hour.

Development Squad is intended for young people that are more experienced i.e. those aiming to compete at triathlon and are “coachable”. Sessions will be a bit more serious than the Fun Blocks, with an emphasis on developing the skills, knowledge and physical fitness required to compete, whilst also training alongside other young people. The Development Squad will consist of one track-focused training session a week during Term 3. Moving into Term 4, we increase the number of sessions to two sessions a week. The squad will take a break throughout Term 2. 

Skills-based camps are planned to take place throughout the year.

All abilities are welcome to join the Development Programme and we have kids involved that are aged from 6yrs to 19yrs. The coaches ensure that young people are allocated in to the right group. 

Fun Blocks – the coaches will split kids in to groups depending on their age and abilities to make sure that the activities are suitable. Everyone meets at the same place and time. 

Development Squad – the coaches will identify keen triathletes that are open to learning and wanting to commit to more triathlon-based training sessions. The Development Squad meet at the same place and time as the fun blocks. 

We try and keep the Fun Blocks and Development Squad sessions around Pilot Bay in Mount Maunganui. Occasionally, the coaches may choose a different location for a training session. For example, when the Club runs a Time Trial bike session out in Maketu.

To find out more about the Development Programme:

• Contact Pete Campbell – development@triathlontauranga.org.nz. 
• Contact Paul Miller, Events & Development Manager – by phone on 027 270 5300 or by email events@triathlontauranga.org.nz
• Join the Triathlon Tauranga Facebook page and keep an eye out for announcements on training and events

The Development Programme requires all to be a member of Triathlon Tauranga. You can join as an individual or as a family. The current membership price for under 16yrs is $35.

To find out more about joining the Club, visit the Membership page. Young people are welcome to give the Development Programme a try before they decide to join up as a member. Being a member of Triathlon Tauranga provides many benefits, including, access to top local triathlon coaches, training sessions, discounts on club triathlon events and subsidised training camps or events. 

As a member of Triathlon Tauranga, you can access training sessions for no additional cost. 

We have amazing support from our sponsors and funding partners that we can also subsidise the costs of some events and contribute towards training camps.

There will be additional costs that will be required as part of being involved in keeping active and fit – such as the cost of bikes and other equipment, triathlon or fitness clothes, etc. We have a great triathlon community so it can be easy to pick up some equipment second hand. The best place for this is to follow the Facebook page.

Many of the younger members or newer members don’t have a road bike. A mountain bike works well for young ones or those just starting out. 

As your young person progresses, you may want to look in to getting a road bike. Our great sponsors,  MyRide Mount Maunganui will be able to provide some excellent advice about stepping up to a road bike. There are always some second hand bikes for sale throughout our wider triathlon community. 

As a member of the Triathlon Tauranga Club, all our members can earn points towards the Club Championships throughout the season. There are awards available for different age categories, including youth and juniors. To find out more about the Club Championships click here.

At the end of the summer season, the Club hosts an Awards Evening to celebrate the achievements of individuals and to bring members together for an evening of fun and food. It is always a great family-friendly evening.