The Aon Whitianga Marathon has an event for everyone ranging from a 5km fun run right up to the premier 42km marathon. New to the event for 2022 is the Cooks Beach Half Track and Trail 22.5km, for those that enjoy a bit of off-road or trail running.
Event Organiser Nick Reader says, ’our event attracted record numbers in 2021 with over 1,500 runners and walkers having a great walking and running.
Feedback from participants encouraged us to make good use of the tracks and trails around Cooks Beach to challenge those that enjoy the off road challenge at events. We know this will have huge appeal to trail runners wanting to explore and experience the terrain and the stunning views of Mercury Bay where not many get to go.’
Participants get to enjoy a ferry ride over to the start line then take in the views of Mercury Bay as they head toward the epic Shakespeare Cliff Reserve trails. They’ll be well rewarded with 180 degree views of the bay at the top. Next up is the opportunity to explore Cooks Beach, including the Purangi Estuary, before heading for the hills for 10km of real off road adventure with forest trails and rolling hills producing more stunning views with the elevation from the climb. This is private land that not many get to enjoy. This event enjoys the one thing unique to this event – a trip on the ferry to finish. As with all distances for the Whitianga Marathon it’s your race and your pace, for both runners and walkers.
The date for the Aon Whitianga Marathon is set as Saturday 15 October 2022. Entries for the event open on Friday 21st January 2022.