MORE than 1,000 youngsters followed in the footsteps of Ironman as they took part in Bolton and the UK’s first Ironkids event.

The countdown to the gruelling triathlon began on Saturday morning with the children’s event in Victoria Square — and some of the youngsters gave the Ironman competitors a run for their money.

Kyla Howard, aged eight, and her sister, Jessica, aged six, took part in the race in support of their dad, Michael, an Ironman contestant.

Jessica said: “I want to take part in Ironman now with my dad.”

Kyla said: “It was really good taking part.”

Mr Howard, aged 36, said: “It is really great being able to involve the children in the event.”

Three fun runs were held, with three to five years competing in a 500-metre run with a parent or guardian, while six to 10-year-olds took part in a 1.5km run and 11 to 15-year-olds in a 2.5km run.

All places in the run had been taken.

Ironman competitor Neil Mercer, aged 47, from Egerton, cheered as his two daughters took part in the race.

Mr Mercer is watch commander at Salford Fire Station and is trying to obtain a grant to put on activities for children.

He said: “The atmosphere is brilliant. I have been to other Ironkids events in other countries but this has to be the best.

“Events like this help get children involved in sporting activities from a young age.”

His daughter, Ruby, aged 10, said: “I Am a bit sore after taking part, but I am very impressed with my dad for doing Ironman.”

Others who took part included the Gordon triplets from Smithills .

Callum, aged seven, left his siblings standing as he beat them all.

He said: “I am so happy and proud. This is my favourite medal and I want to continue running now.”

Hannah Thurston, aged nine, of Westhoughton , said she has been inspired to try to one day beat her brother, Luke, aged 14.

He said: “I didn’t think she would do it.”

She said: “I will beat him one day.”

Ironman spokesman Waveney Thomson said: “This is the first time we have held an Ironkids in the UK and it has been great.”

Cllr Christopher Peacock, Bolton Council ’s cabinet member for sport, said: “Seeing the children cross the finish with a smile on their faces has been brilliant. It has been a fun day.”