Wind no hurdle to thousands of runners

Serena Sage, left, Kenny Asiata, Talei Williams, Aagie Lokeni and Toa Su'a at the City to Surf run. Photo / Joel Ford

Strong winds did not stop 2500 people taking part in the City to Surf event yesterday.

The event is the largest fun run and walk in the Bay of Plenty, with competitors following either a 5km or 12km course around the base track of Mauao.

The 12km race started at Sulphur Point, went over the Harbour Bridge, down Totara St, through Coronation Park, along Pilot Bay, around the Mauao base track and finished on the Main Beach. The 5km event started on Main Beach, took one lap around the base track then returned to the starting point.

Event director Murray Fleming said aside from the wind, the whole event had gone well.

"St John only had to give one person Panadol, there were no injuries. It was very windy, obviously, so it was challenging for us but from a competitor's point of view they were quite lucky because they were quite sheltered on the Mount side."

Mr Fleming said this year's event had brought in extra competitors due to the introduction of two new categories, corporate and sports clubs.

"We had 40 corporate teams and 20 teams from sports clubs so that was an extra touch.

"The whole thing went great, our numbers were up by about 600 on last year and everybody seemed to have a good time which was the feedback we've had."

City to Surf would definitely be continuing next year, Mr Fleming said. "We're going to target 3000 entries next year."