Ruapehu Express – Epic Adventure Mountain Bike, Run or Walk

Announcing the Ruapehu Express – Epic Adventure Mountain Bike, Run or Walk

Entries are open for the Ruapehu Express, a brand new epic adventure taking place in a stunning alpine landscape with plenty scope to test skills, fitness or have family fun.

Based in Ohakune in the central North Island, the inaugural Ruapehu Express gets underway on Saturday 27 February 2016. Participants can either mountain bike 50km or 21 km or trail run or walk 21km or 15km.

“Ruapehu is best known for it’s winter activities, but it’s a great summer destination too and we’re happy to inject more energy into the season by introducing the Ruapehu Express event,”says Kandy Mott chairperson of the Ohakune Events Charitable Trust, the organisation behind the town’s super successful maardi gras.

Crossing sections of private land exclusive to the event, the mountain bike route is a classic point to point cross country race/ride. Riders journey from the lower Tukino Ski Area to Ohakune across varied terrain including NZ Army tussock LAV tracks, Karioi forest single track and Rangataua Forest native bush.

“The course is mainly downhill which means, speed, fun, flow and very few energy sapping climbs,” says Event manager, Nick Reader.

The shorter 21km ride starts part way though Karioi forest, weaves through Rangataua forest and glides down to the Ohakune finish line.

Runners and walkers will complete an equally scenic and stunning event on a separate route. Starting at Horopito competitors will cross the finish line in Ohakune taking on the scenic and historic Old Coach Road plus additional trails to complete either a half marathon or a 15km trail.

In the early 20th Century the Old Coach Road connected the two ends of the then unfinished Main trunk railway line. Today it’s a popular walking and cycling track and includes the historic Hapuawhenua viaduct and is the only cycle track in Tongariro National Park, a World Heritage Area.

“There’s something very special about the Ruapehu region - the majestic mountains, wide open desert landscapes and crystal clear mountain streams – perfect scenic distractions for the bikers, runners and walkers as they take on the challenge,” says Nick.

“And we think the Ohakune Junction is the ideal finish line for all competitors to reflect on the day, catch up and enjoy well earned refreshements.”

Enter now at www.ruapehuexpress.co.nz

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