Disney XD 'TRYathlon' Brings Together Teen Actors and Pro-Sport Stars
By | August 9, 2012
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"Lab Rats" stars Billy Unger and Spencer Boldman in Disney’s "TRYathlon"
In an expansion of Disney XD’s ongoing "TRYit" initiative designed to inspire kids to get active, Disney’s "TRYathlon" special features pro-sports athletes coaching young TV stars like Billy Unger and Spencer Boldman from “Lab Rats” while they compete in challenges that test their skills and their teamwork. The NFL’s Arian Foster (Houston Texans), the WNBA’s Candace Parker (Los Angeles Sparks) and the NBA’s Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves) will coach the teens in the special, premiering Monday, August 13 at 8pm on Disney XD.
The special is part of Disney’s Magic of Healthy Living, a program that inspires kids and families to lead healthier lifestyles by making nutritious eating and physical activity simple and fun. CableFAX spoke with Unger and Boldman about competing in “TRYathlon” and “Lab Rats,” one of Disney XD’s highest-rated teen sci-fi comedy series.
What were you guys doing to prepare for the competition? Why were you chosen to be part of it?
Boldman: Staying healthy is already a big part of my life. Billy and I are very athletic and we work out on a regular basis. Plus, “Lab Rats” is an action-packed series. So that’s probably why they picked us. Billy’s my workout partner and we were doing a lot of strength training on top of our regular exercise routine to prepare for the “TRYathlon.” [A Texas native, Boldman played lacrosse in high school and is a hardcore New England Patriots fan.]
How did you guys do in the competition?
Unger: We knew the competition was going to be somewhat challenging and it did take a lot of energy, especially the swimming task. Everyone kind of struggled a little bit in swimming but we managed to complete all the tasks, which also include biking, running and hiking. We put our heart and soul in this and we were each other’s cheerleaders during the competition. The important message from the competition is everyone should exercise regularly and eat healthy. It’s about having a healthy lifestyle.
What’s your experience at “Lab Rats,” which was renewed in May for a 2nd season? Is there going to be a 3rd season?
Boldman: I have been with the show since the beginning. The cast members and the crew are like my family. The series is the highest-rated show on Disney XD so hopefully there will be a 3rd season.
