Record Field For XTERRA Trail Run & Walk In Waihi

Posted by Taylor Mosen on 09/10/2011

On Saturday 8th October, almost 700 runners and walkers tackled the scenic trails of Waihi’s native bush for the XTERRA Trail Challenge event.

The Coromandel turned on the sunshine for all four event options, which included 7.3km, 13km, 19km and for the bravest runners of all, the brand new 42.2km marathon event.

The 19km long course attracted an exciting elite field as the race doubles as the National Trail Running Championships and offers the chance to qualify for the exclusive right to compete in Hawaii at the World XTERRA Trail Running Championships.

The winner of the men’s long course was Takapuna runner Stephen Lett in a time of 1:32:02.

“I was a little bit nervous because I hadn’t done an off-road race before - I hoped for top three or top five so I’m really happy with the finish,” he said.

Lett is excited about the prospect of going to Hawaii and if things fall into place quickly he could be at this year’s event on December 3rd.

“If it all works out, I’d love to go.”

The women’s long course was taken out by University of Waikato student Angela Simpson in a time of 1:49:47.

“It was a bit crowded at the start so I had to work my way through and didn’t really know where I was coming,” she said.

“I was actually quite relaxed before the race – I didn’t know what other good runners were racing.”

Adding to the excitement of this event was a myriad of natural obstacles scattered along the course, the sort of thing that is attracting so many to trail running and walking.

Aside from the tough terrain that is expected on any trail around the world, this event had three swing bridges hanging over the Karangahake River and even an underground tunnel section.

 “It’s a really nice track – it’s a bit different to have to stop (on the swing bridges) and walk during a race,” said Simpson.

Event manager Dave Franks from total sport said he couldn’t be happier with how the whole day came together.

“I’m really happy with the turnout - especially the fact that so many local families got stuck in and enjoyed the day,” he said.

“There was a really great atmosphere at the finish line with everyone getting cheered in. And to top it all off, the weather was pretty much perfect for running.”