A new ultrarunning event for Taupo will see runners making an uninterrupted traverse across the entire Great Lake Trail, including over private land.
The inaugural Taupo Ultramarathon event will run on 15 October, 2016, with four distances – 24km, 50km, 74km and 100km. The 24km option gives those new to the sport a taste of the ultra experience.
The event is set to add to Taupo’s stable of endurance events and will follow the highly popular Run Taupo series happening between July and September. Ultramarathon events are growing in popularity internationally, particularly those on trails.
Event founder and endurance athlete, Will Samuel says he has created the event to offer runners and walkers of all abilities an ultrarunning option on the famed trail,
“The Great Lake Trail is literally an epic journey that showcases the very best of what our region has to offer – New Zealand’s largest lake, mountain ranges, rivers, waterfalls and native forest.”
“It’s absolutely stunning and the new Taupo Ultramarathon offers a once-a-year opportunity where runners can access the Great Lake Trail uninterrupted, including access over private land.”
“We couldn’t do this without the support of land owners, trail builders, community organisations and many others and I’d particularly like to acknowledge their efforts which will make this event possible.”
Mr Samuel says the event will run predominately on single trail, with some four wheel drive, farmland and road routes connecting the trails.
He says starts will be staggered along the course, with all events finishing at Whakaipo Bay.
“The 74km start is a particular highlight as it is only accessible by boat.”
Local company Total Sport will be involved with the event, and are excited by the proposition - says Aaron Carter, “the Taupo Ultramarathon is set to become one of NZ’s truly iconic and absolutely epic events. Great courses in an amazing region, and offering a number of options for a wide variety of people – bring it on!”
Event Ambassador and trail runner Mal Law commends the new event.
“It’s great to see another Ultramarathon added to the New Zealand calendar, in such a great location and on stunning trails.”
Mr Law last year completed his incredible High Five-0 Challenge of climbing 50 peaks and running 50 marathons in 50 days, including Mt Ruapehu and Mt Ngauruhoe. He recently launched ‘FIFTY - the Movie’ which profiles the challenge and screens in Taupo on 5 April, 2015.
Entries are limited and will available online at www.taupoultra.com. The first 100 entries before the end of February receive a special rate for those who want to guarantee their spot early. Solo runners can enter any of the four distances, with walk options over the 24km and 50km and team relay options available for the 50km.
The following is a promotional video for the 2016 event:
Source: Scoop Media