Oliver's Pukete Kids Race

Oliver had his first bike race today. A few people from the Hamilton MTB Club put on a morning of fun races and competitions for kids. We took Oli along on his Mocka balance bike. Ella was on her tricycle, but she seemed happier to run around, because it was faster than her trike (she's not self-propelled yet and still needs someone to push her).
We were a bit late, but signed on in the nick of time before the slow race. Oliver would have won the slow race, if not for the technicality that his feet are permanently down! Still, it was great for him to be able to take part and be involved. Next up was a slalom race. The slalom was pretty tricky - Oli didn't zig, nor did he zag... he just rode along beside the markers looking a bit perplexed! I was running alongside trying to show him how to weave through the markers. It didn't bother Oli that he wasn't doing it right - he still had fun!

Going uphill is hard work!

Next up was the mountain bike race. He loved the mountain bike track, and had a blast going over the bumps and down the downhills. I ran alongside and in front to help show the way and encourage him to keep going (it was quite long - puff puff!). He did two laps, with a break in between for a game of grab the banana (in your teeth!) and a bit of lunch. He was almost out of control in a few places on the mountain bike track - those little roots are pretty big when your wheels are so small. He ran off the track on one little downhill, and even had a crash when he got into a rut. He really does take after his Mum.

Getting some speed up on the flat sections

Oli riding off the trail!

Enjoying the downhills

He seemed to really enjoy himself, and said he wants to do another race too! Free bananas and winning a flashing red light for a spot prize certainly helped sweeten the deal.

Thanks to Russ and the rest of the volunteers for a great morning of fun with the kids. :)