Forget television's Amazing Race with its catfights, contrived scenarios and $1 million prize - Russell held an Amazing Race of its own on Saturday with the more noble aim of saving Northlanders' lives.
The annual competition saw eight teams of three St John volunteers find and complete eight tests of their skills, teamwork and clinical knowledge.
St John officer Louisa "Lulu" Barten said everything about the day was amazing - from the dramatic scenarios, the high standard of competition to the weather.
A team from Paihia - Vicky Houry, Janna Maltzbender and Tracey Jenkins, aka The Paihia Protectors - won in a photo finish over the Bandage Babes from Kerikeri (Haana Barker, Beth Christiansen and Kate Davies). Toby Ricketts from Doubtless Bay was also recognised for his strong performance.
The scenarios scattered around Russell ranged from an unconscious heart attack patient to a burning building, an ambulance driving test and even a plane crash at Russell School.