Wellingtonians Embrace The Elements At Round The Bays

They were a force to be reckoned with. Thousands faced the blustery weather head-on to take part in the 48th Southern Cross Round the Bays Wellington, in the city today.

The Capital lived up to its reputation, and this year’s wind theme – however the blustery course did not deter the spirited participants. Approximately three quarters of the more than 10,000 registered for the 8.4km fun run – and family-friendly 5.5km course – both finishing with a party atmosphere at Kilbirnie Park.

From families with prams, to mates and work teams, and more than a dozen people in their eighties – everyone embraced the elements. New Zealand’s funnest funrun had people of all abilities, from elite runners through to people who have overcome medical or physical challenges to take part.

“The finishers’ medals were well deserved today, our Elemental theme truly lived up to its reputation. It was high-energy, the course was pumping with entertainment and our volunteer army. It was great to see people from across the country and the globe getting out there,” Henry McLernon, Round the Bays’ event director says.

The three-city series continues in Ōtautahi Christchurch next weekend, followed by Tāmaki Makaurau on Sunday, March 8. All three locations have the same 8.4km fun-run, only Pōneke offered the half-marathon option. That was hotly contested by elite runners vying for the finishline tickertape and their own personal best times.

The Honda Half-Marathon men’s category was won by Toby Gaulter with a time of 1:07.02. Kumiko Otani improved her time for the third consecutive year, crossing the finishline at 1:20.42.

It is a significant fundraiser, with more than $140, 000 already raised for more than 140 charities, including the series’ official charity, Mental Health Foundation.

Honda Half-Marathon leaderboard

Fastest males

• Toby Gaulter 1:07.02
• Billy Jorgensen 1:11.16
• Max Doherty 1:11.25

Fastest females

• Kumiko Otani 1:20.42
• Amanda Waldron 1:23.44
• Floortje Kaars 1:27.33

8.4km fun-run leaderboard

Fastest males

• Christian Davey 28.23
• Ryan Hunt 30.57
• Samuel Martin 31.04

Fastest females

• Esther George 31.30
• Yui Iwai 32.07 
• Natalie Hardaker 32.08

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