Charity Undie Run Returns to Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Ironman

Charity Undie Run Returns to Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Ironman New Zealand as Part of 35 Year Celebrations

25 January 2019

The Underpants Run has been a popular part of IRONMAN Kona for 21 years. Credit: IRONMAN

IRONMAN competitors, supporters and Taupo locals are encouraged to strip down to their undies and run for charity, with the Undie Run confirmed as part of this year’s 35th Anniversary celebrations with the Greenlea Helicopter Trust set to receive all entry fees.

IRONMAN Race Director Wayne Reardon is delighted that the popular event is set to return, having last appeared in Taupo in 2003.

“The Undie Run will add a little fun and colour to what can otherwise be quite a serious final few days building towards what is for many, the biggest challenge they will take on in their lives when they race IRONMAN on the Saturday.

“It is also a fitting addition to our 35-year celebrations, turning back the clock to when athletes would commonly race the entire bike and run in their ‘budgie smugglers’, who knows, we might see a few of those athletes dusting off their race undies for old times’ sake!”

Reardon points out that there is a serious side to the event, with funds raised going to the event charity, one that is

“Greenlea Helicopter Trust is an incredible organisation servicing the central North Island region and coming to the aid of people when they need them most, in times of real emergency. Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand is proud to link with such a charity, one doing amazing work and literally saving lives. Getting down to your undies for a run down the main street won’t be difficult when you know the cause you are supporting.”

The event is not new to IRONMAN, having a 21-year history at Kona, with the Underpants Run there raising over $300,000 for local charities in that time, as well as proving the perfect ice breaker for athletes, supporters and locals to enter the spirit of race week.

The emphasis on the Thursday morning Undie Run is fun, with no timing and certainly no need to hit top speed. It is a chance for IRONMAN Competitors to perhaps release some nerves a couple of days out from the big race, but also for locals to be a part of the event and support a great local cause.

Competitors will be charged $10 to enter, with all funds donated to Greenlea Helicopter Trust. There will be spot prizes for best dressed, with local identities encouraged to lead the way and shed their inhibitions and show off their undies for a great cause.

The Undie Run will depart from the Northern Domain by the main IRONMAN stage and run along the waterfront to Northcroft Reserve and back, for an easy 2km journey, completed at whatever pace you feel comfortable at in your undies, be they briefs, boxers or perhaps something a little more inventive and colourful!

Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain IRONMAN NZ Undie Run
WHEN: 8:00am Thursday, 28th February 2019. Bib collection from 7.30am (or collect between 9am – 5pm on Wednesday 17th from the Info Desk in the Great Lake Centre).
WHERE: Start on the Northern Domain by the stage and run along the waterfront to the Love Taupo sign and back (2km).
DRESS CODE: Undies and fancy dress!
REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE

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