RUNNING

Marathon, Mud and Massive Crowds

By Sport Manawatu

3096 participants embraced the rain and the mud at the 17th Annual Great Forest Events today in the Waitarere Forest, Levin.

Despite the lack of sunshine, this year’s event was the largest on record with almost 500 more participants than last year, including over 100 full marathon runners.

Sport Manawatu Events Advisor Kathy McMillan was pleased the rain did not deter the crowds and says, “It was great to see all abilities out there! A special congratulations to all the workplaces that encouraged their staff to take part.”

This year’s full marathon male and female winners were Chris Sanson from Palmerston North with 2 hours 38 minutes, and Leah Barnfield from New Plymouth with a 3 hours 22 minutes.

Although he finished 8 minutes longer than his goal time, Chris Sanson was still pleased with the event outcome.

“It was a little bit muddy but it added to the event and it was really enjoyable.”

Chairperson of the Great Forest Events Incorporated Society, Cushla McColl was amazed by the thousands of people that turned out to the event, and appreciates the hard work of all involved.

“Thanks to the 200 volunteers who worked so hard to make the event happen! Without the support from the community we couldn’t have pulled off such a unique event.”

ENDS

For more information contact:
Kathy McMillan
Events Advisor
Sport Manawatu
06 357 5349
Kathy.mcmillan@sportmanawatu.org.nz