Bolton town centre was buzzing as youngsters from all over the country came together to take part in the annual Ironkids event.
The dull and dreary weather didn’t dampen spirits in Bolton today as dedicated young athletes came to take part in a day of fun runs, as part of the Ironman UK weekend.
Children aged 3-15 can take part and earn their very own finisher medal under the Ironman gantry.
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Around 4,000 children took part in the event, and it is the biggest Ironkids event in the world.
The event started at 9am, and groups set off in waves throughout the day until 4pm.
Dean Smith, Ironman UK Race Director, said: “This is one of my favourite events on our race calendar.
“No times are taken, with the emphasis being on participation and enjoying a healthy, active lifestyle.
“Every child is made to feel like a winner simply by participating and finishing.
“It is terrific to see so many kids getting outside and participating in a healthy activity and enjoying every moment.
“Hopefully, this inspires the kids to adopt a healthier lifestyle from a young age and maybe even to one day emulate their Ironman heroes.”
Students from St Joseph’s RC High School in Horwich took part.
Year 8 Ruby S and Lucas B completed the Ironkids run this morning.
Year 8 Eve W completed the Ironkids 1.5k race this morning.
Current and future students including Year 7 Rocco F, Nathan, Kian, Herbie, Isabella M-J Lilly-Jay and their little brothers and sisters.
Year 7 Riley W who completed the 1.5Km Ironkids course this morning in under five minutes.
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In the town centre was a family fun zone with wall climbing, face painting, arts and crafts, retro video games and a football arena.
There was also a festival zone which offered food, drinks and music.
The Bolton Rotary helped out at the event and volunteers have been marshalling the route.
A spokesperson from Rotary in Bolton said: "We are really pleased to have helped promote such sport and such an event in Bolton.
“Our volunteers have helped at the start and the finish, handing out water and medals.
“We also manned the crossing points.
“This is the sort of thing Rotarians really enjoy - doing stuff to help in our communities.
“Though some of our clothes are still drying from the heavy rain during the night run."
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The main Ironman event will take place tomorrow, with athletes completing a swim in Pennington Flash, a bike ride to Bolton town centre and finishing it all off with a run.
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