SHANNON, ZANE AND THE ‘SURF DOG' A SMASH HIT WITH THE KIDS

Sydney, February 19: Champion ironmen Zane Holmes and Shannon Eckstein have put smiles on the faces of the kids at the Neuro/Spinal Ward at Sydney's Children's Hospital at Randwick, on the eve of the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Iron Man final at Coogee on Sunday.

The pair was joined by Surf Life Saving mascot "Surf Dog" in a special visit which had the young patients mesmorised by the famous ironmen and their furry friend.

"We wanted to give these kids their own ironman experience and put a smile on their faces," said defending Series champion Holmes.

"Shannon and I appreciate all the support we get from the community and always like to put something back in when we can and there is nothing better than visits like these.

"Just to see the looks on their faces when they saw the Surf Dog was priceless.

"Even though they can't make it to the beach on Sunday we told them they had to tune in to Channel Seven and give us a cheer."

The ironmen left a host of goodies in the wards, including autographed cards and posters, mini "Surf Dogs", surf rescue key rings and colouring books.

It was a special afternoon the kids in the Neuro/Spinal Ward will always remember.

The Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Iron Man Series finals kick off at Coogee at 1pm on Sunday.