MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
15 MARCH 2005

A New Goldrush Is About To Hit Central Otago

The ninth annual Goldrush multisport event is taking place on Otago Anniversary Weekend 19-21 March 2005 over 375 kilometres of Central Otago's rugged ranges, deep rivers and remote trails.

The lycra-clad competitors will battle it out in kayaking, mountain biking, road cycling and running in Central Otago's premiere multisport event.

Over five hundred competitors from New Zealand and overseas are competing in the 2005 event.

Goldrush co-organizer Neville Grubb says interest in the event continues to grow each year.

"The Goldrush is a test of willpower and endurance, and provides an adrenaline rush for all involved," he says.

The starting line is Alexandra's Pioneer Park, where competitors kayak down the Clutha River to the Roxburgh Dam.

Competitors mountainbike on the Old Coach Trail over the Knobby Range, before running from Little Valley Station to the Upper Manorburn Dam.

At first light on Day 2, competitors cycle from Upper Manorburn to Serpentine, then on to Moa Creek, before following the rail trail on foot to Lauder.

Day 2 ends with a mountain bike ride over Thompson's Gorge, finishing at Tarras.

Day 3 begins with an early start with an initial cycle from Tarras to Albert Town via the Hawea Road.

Competitors then kayak down the Clutha River to Lindis Junction and road cycle down the length of Lake Dunstan into Earnscleugh.

The final challenge is to run along the river track from Earnscleugh to Alexandra, crossing the finish line at Molyneux Park.

For news, events and information about Goldrush 2005 go to http://www.goldrush.co.nz

ENDS