Beach Series Brings Healthy Competition

By Catherine Murray

One of Auckland’s most anticipated sporting events is returning this summer.

The State Beach Series launches its 2013-2014 season on October 29, and this year’s focus is on getting the whole family involved in getting fit and having fun.

With the competition that sport brings, events such as the State Beach Series also provide a healthy opportunity for children to learn about this vital part of life, says registered psychologist Sara Chatwin of Auckland-based Mindworks. “For many years children are competing against their peers, so the State Beach Series offers another way to compete within a supportive framework, while having fun with their family and friends. In addition, these events give children the opportunities to enlarge their social network and meet new children on a regular basis.”

“We love the fact that the event is family friendly,” event organiser Scott Rice says. “This season we want to see even more families down at the beach, taking part together and competing. We cater for all ages and all abilities, and there is definitely something for everyone from the casual athlete to the super elite.”

After seeing how many primary school children were taking part with their parents last season, Rice has introduced the State Beach Series – Primary Schools Competition. Teaming up with State Insurance, More FM and Pita Pit, the competition offers the incentive for students to accrue points for their primary school and earn prizes.

“It’s great to create competition between schools and motivate students to compete,” says Mum and primary school teacher Keri Maunder. “Kids love competition, and with the State Beach Series they gain confidence, a sense of team work and new friendships can be made.”

The Maunder family of Forrest Hill are looking forward to the start of the State Beach Series season; in fact it has often been a topic of conversation throughout the winter. Last year Dad Simon Maunder came second overall in the men’s 5km beach run, and two of their sons Cameron and Jamie competed in the junior 2.5km beach run. Youngest son Caleb is keen to join in with the action just as soon as he’s old enough.

“There are so many benefits of participating,” says Maunder. “There’s the overall health and fitness gains, it’s great family time, and there’s the chance to catch up with other families. Also, being a good role model is one of the most important jobs as a parent, and our boys are able to look up to their Dad and be motivated by him to exercise and stay healthy.”

The State Beach Series, sponsored by the North Shore Times, sees participants choose from one of eight swimming, running or stand-up paddling events. Held on the picturesque Takapuna Beach over 17 Tuesday evenings throughout summer, the event attracts participants from all over Auckland.