About This Event
The Little Penguin Dash Aquathon is a fun junior beach biathlon on Phillip Island’s Cowes Pier, offering 200‑m/800‑m or 400‑m/1.2‑km swim‑run combos for kids 7‑14. Free‑spirit, community‑focused and perfect for first‑time aquathoners.
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Saturday 27 February
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400m swim and 1.2km run 400m swim / 1.2km run10:30am$45
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200m swim and 800m run 200m swim / 0.8km run10:30am$45
Entry fees as listed on 14 Oct 2026. Prices often rise after early bird, so check the entry page for today's price.
Quick Facts
- Date
- Saturday, 27 February 2027
- Terrain
- Beach
- Location
- North Pier Hotel, Cowes, VIC
- Entry Fee
- $45
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Start Time
- 10:30 AM
- Good for Beginners
- Yes – short, untimed distances and a supportive atmosphere make it ideal for beginners.
Event Details
Course Description
Racers line up on Cowes beach just east of the pier, where a marshal cues the start at 10:30 am. Young swimmers dive into the sheltered surf, with depth adjusted for each age group. After the swim, athletes transition to their age‑specific area – 7‑10‑year‑olds near the toilets, 11‑14‑year‑olds at the pier triangle – then race along the Esplanade, passing cheering crowds and the iconic finish arch in front of the North Pier Hotel. The short, flat beach run finishes with medals, water and fruit, making the course both scenic and family‑friendly.
Getting There
The race centre is located at the North Pier Hotel on Cowes Pier, Cowes, Victoria. For parking, public transport options and exact arrival recommendations, please check the official event website or contact the organisers directly.
Where to Stay
Places to stay near the start, priced for race weekend.
We may earn a small referral fee if you book through this map — you pay the same price.
Weather & What to Pack
February is summer in Victoria, with typical daytime temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 28 °C and plenty of sunshine tempered by occasional sea breezes. Light, breathable swimwear or a wetsuit (recommended) is advisable, along with a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the event.
Race details last updated 14 Oct 2026
Ready to run Little Penguin Dash Aquathon?
Official WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
When do I need to register?
Registration is online only and must be completed before 6 pm the day before the race. No on‑the‑day entries are accepted, and you must check‑in at the Race Centre by 9:45 am on race day.
Is the race timed?
No. The Little Penguin Dash is participation‑focused – entrants are not timed and no places are awarded.
What gear do I need to bring?
You will receive a race number and coloured swim cap at the Race Centre. Wetsuits and goggles are recommended; extraneous aids such as fins, boards or snorkels are not allowed.
What are the age limits and distance options?
Ages 7‑10 compete in a 200 m swim followed by an 800 m run. Ages 11‑14 compete in a 400 m swim followed by a 1.2 km run.
Where do I pick up my race packet and when should I arrive?
Pick up your packet (race number and swim cap) at the Race Centre in the North Pier Hotel. A competitor briefing takes place near the start area from 8:30 am‑9:30 am; arriving early to collect your gear and attend the briefing is recommended.
parkruns near this race
Free, timed 5km every Saturday morning. A good hit-out between races.
- Phillip Island parkrun Sat 8:00am · 10 km away · Newhaven
- Hastings Foreshore parkrun Sat 8:00am · 16 km away · Hastings
- Red Hill Rail Trail parkrun Sat 8:00am · 20 km away · Red Hill South
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