A record breaking number of youngsters from Teesside took part in the region's biggest junior triathlon event on 24 September.

Building on the success of Corus Kids of Steel 2008, this year's Teesside event, which was hosted by Saltburn Leisure Centre and run by Tees Valley Leisure - attracted over 650 kids who took part in the UK's fastest growing sport.

The event was one of four Corus Kids of Steel triathlons taking place in the UK this year which aims to encourage children to experience the sport of triathlon in a fun and safe environment. The event saw kids aged 8-13 take up the challenge of completing a 25m swim, a 1km cycle, and a 400m run. Every child who took part was rewarded with a t-shirt, medal and certificate.

Corus Managing Director, Jon Bolton said: "Corus were delighted to support the triathlon through its corporate partnership with the British Triathlon Federation to help develop athletes from the grassroots level to world champions".

Tees Valley Leisure Manager, Kov Bahadori commented: "The event was a great success and great fun for all the children who were involved. They really enjoyed the challenge and hopefully Cleveland Triathlon Club, who helped out on the day - will pick up some new recruits in the future."

British Triathlon Federation Regional Manager Georgie Rutherford said, "It was a fantastic day and all the children, most of whom had not experience a Triathlon event before left with smiling faces. There was a great sense of team spirit amongst the children who encouraged and supported each other throughout the day. In conjunction with our Corporate Partners, Corus, we were delighted to provide a fun, active and enjoyable day that created opportunities for the youngsters achieve their personal triathlon challenges.

"We would like to thank all those who helped to make the event a success including Saltburn Leisure Centre, all the volunteers who helped on the day including Hartlepool Sixth Form and year eleven pupils at Saltburn Learning Campus. Special thanks must also go to the manager and staff at Sainsburys in Saltburn who provided the water and healthy snacks and Click Teesside, Teesside University's Radio Station for providing the music and entertainment which created a terrific atmosphere on the day!"