Triathlon and Kids Fit n’Fun fair brought out best of fun, competition and education

By Marianne Mueller

Reporter

ROSCOE – Three hours of action kicked off with the Prairie Triathlon at North Pointe. This sprint distance triathlon began with Swimmers hitting the pool to complete a 350-yard swim. After finishing laps entrants headed to a path surrounded by beautiful prairie land.

On the path participants took a 17-mile bike ride plus did a 3 mile run. Eighty-five people ages ranging from 16-64 took part in a very friendly competition.

A post-race ceremony awarded prizes to top finishers. Additionally all had a chance to become better acquainted as they enjoyed food, beverages or won door prizes. All proceeds from the race will be used to benefit the South Beloit Girls and Boys Club.

This event was just tapped the surface of events held on Saturday morning, June 6 on the campus grounds.

The kids Fit n’ Fun fair section many options for everyone.

Jo Jo from the Kids Spot greeted guests who tried either Hopscotch, doing cartwheels on a mat or tested skills on balance pads. Some tried just one while others opted to do all three.

At a face painting station detailed artwork graced children’s faces. As an extra bonus a hand painting area proved to be a popular hot spot.

Pickles the Clown welcomed a long line of smiling children as she made unique balloon creations.

The Roscoe Rockton Lion’s Junior Tackle Football Xtreme team performed gymnastics and special routines wowing the crowd.

Delighted sounds came from an inflatable obstacle course complete with a slide or in an inflatable pirate ship geared toward tots.

Jackie and Alex Kirchner trained people on healthy eating. Topics covered at their booth included food, and recipes using healthy ingredients. Furthering educational opportunities were word searches and information on “Choose my plate.gov.”

Another table provided information and tips on summer safety, skin care, and skin protection.

The Harlem Roscoe Fire Department was on hand to teach fire safety in a smoke house.

Hoo Haven provided an eye catching display featuring Marshmallow the Pelican, Carmella, a 25 year old leopard tortoise, a barn owl named Casper and a corn snake. Hoo Haven presenters told stories of each on site animal.

“Carmella requires special care but can live a very long time,” said Karen Herdklotz of Hoo Haven. “She is believed to be around 25 years old currently and will have a permanent home with us,” added Herdklotz.

Macktown Warriors family members were on hand to supply information on the football program.

A hand washing inspection station and a medical tent were on site.

Sounds spun by a DJ kept action rolling along with occasional announcements leading toward key points of the day’s event.

At the heart of everything were multiple volunteers who worked in a variety of capacities.

North Pointe’s ‘Fit ‘n Fun Fair’ fit its name perfectly. Entire families were treated to a combination of fun, competition and education! 

Marianne Mueller photos

Volunteers provided manpower in many capacities at North Pointe’s Fit n’ Fun event on Saturday, June 6.