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Our Junior section provides safe, enjoyable, and positive sporting opportunities for children and young people, in line with the principles and policies of Welsh Triathlon.

The programme supports the long-term development of children, encouraging physical activity, confidence, and enjoyment through swimming, cycling, and running. 

Sessions are delivered in an environment that promotes fun and enjoyment, age-appropriate skill development, respect, inclusion, and positive behaviour. Performance and competition are secondary to participation, learning, and personal development.

The cost for annual membership for Juniors is £17.50.

WHO CAN JOIN

  • Juniors must be a minimum of 8 years old.
  • The programme is open to children of all abilities.
  • No previous triathlon experience is required.
  • A parent or responsible adult must remain present at the venue for all sessions. Adults are welcome to join in on the adult session.

Participation is encouraged at a level appropriate to each child’s confidence, motivation, and physical development.

TRAINING SCHEDULE AND REQUIREMENTS

Minimum requirements are in place to ensure sessions are delivered safely and appropriately:

Swimming

Swimming takes place at Pencoed Swimming Pool on Fridays between 18:20 and 19:20. The cost of each session is £2.90 payable through the Spond App.

  • Juniors must be able to swim 50 metres continuously and independently.
  • They should be confident in a pool environment.
  • They must be able to listen to and follow coach instructions.

Swimming sessions focus on water safety, confidence, and basic technique.

Cycling

Cycling sessions are to be arranged and details will be updated in due course.

  • Juniors must be able to ride a bike independently without stabilisers.
  • They must be able to start, stop, steer, and brake safely.
  • Bikes must be roadworthy and suitable for use with a correctly fitted helmet. No participation will be allowed without a helmet.

Cycling sessions focus on bike handling skills, control, and awareness. 

Running

Running sessions are to be arranged and details will be updated in due course.

  • Juniors must be able to run for 10–15 minutes at a comfortable pace.
  • They should be willing to take part in warm-ups, games, and drills.
  • Suitable footwear and clothing are required.

Running activities are fun, progressive, and age-appropriate. 

General Behaviour

All juniors are expected to:

  • Follow instructions from coaches and volunteers.
  • They must show respect to others.
  • They should participate in a safe and positive manner.
  • They should look after personal equipment where appropriate.

EQUIPMENT

Equipment requirements depend on the discipline your child is taking part in. Typical equipment includes:

  • Swimwear, goggles, and towel for swimming.
  • A suitable bike and helmet for cycling. No participation will be allowed without a helmet.
  • Trainers and comfortable sports clothing for running.
  • A water bottle.
  • Weather-appropriate clothing.

No specialist triathlon equipment is required.

SAFETY AND SUPERVISION

The club places the welfare of children above all else, in line with Welsh Triathlon safeguarding principles.

  • All sessions are delivered by appropriately qualified coaches.
  • Activities are risk assessed and adapted as required.
  • First aid provision is available at all sessions.
  • A parent or responsible adult must remain on site for the duration of sessions. They are welcome to take part in the adult sessions.

Children are encouraged to speak to a coach if they feel uncomfortable, unwell, or unsure at any time.

WHAT PARENTS CAN EXPECT

Parents can expect the club to provide:

  • A safe, child-centred environment.
  • Sessions are delivered in line with Welsh Triathlon policies and codes of conduct.
  • Equal opportunities are provided regardless of ability.
  • Clear communication is provided regarding sessions, expectations, and changes.
  • Coaches and volunteers act as positive role models.
  • The focus remains on enjoyment, confidence, and personal development.

Parents are expected to support the club’s codes of conduct and safeguarding procedures.

SAFEGUARDING AND PROTECTING CHILDREN

The club adopts and follows the Welsh Triathlon Safeguarding and Protecting Children Policy.

  • The welfare of the child is paramount.
  • All children have the right to take part in sport in a safe and enjoyable environment.
  • All coaches and volunteers working with juniors are DBS checked.
  • Relevant personnel have completed safeguarding training.
  • A designated Club Welfare Officer is in place.
  • Safeguarding concerns are managed in line with Welsh Triathlon procedures.

All juniors, parents, coaches, and volunteers are expected to adhere to Welsh Triathlon Codes of Conduct.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where do the sessions take place?
Swimming takes place at Pencoed Swimming Pool on Friday evenings at 18:20 until 19:20. Cycling and running session will take place or closed roads around Pencoed. Exact details of location will be shared in advance with parents.

What is the minimum age to join?
The minimum age is 8 years old.

Is previous triathlon experience required?
No. Sessions are suitable for beginners.

Do parents need to stay?
Yes. A parent or responsible adult must remain on site for all sessions. Parents are welcome to take part in the adult sessions.

Is the programme competitive?
The focus is on participation, enjoyment, and development. Competition is optional.

What if a child does not feel safe or comfortable?
Children are encouraged to speak to a coach, parent, or the Club Welfare Officer. All concerns are taken seriously.