600 entries expected for marathon events

More than 600 entries are expected for the Wairarapa country marathon, half-marathon and fun-run walks to be held on Sunday.

Marathon competitors will cover two laps of the Pakaraka circuit in an event that will also double as the Wellington championship.

Early men section favourites are the Wellington duo of Gareth Morton and Tim Horne while Mandy Simpson of Wellington and Ingrid Frost are favourites in the women's section.

And sure to attract plenty of attention are two Hutt Valley Marathon Clinic competitors in Michael Stewart and Stewart Tubbs. Stewart will be taking part in his 499th marathon while Tubbs will chalk up number 150.

The half-marathon, which will probably be the most popular of all the events, will be raced over one lap of the Pakaraka circuit and will involve a run and walk section while two fun run/walks will cover either 10kmor 5km.

All competitors will be eligible for the major spot prize of $1000 cash, which will be drawn at the prize-giving ceremony at Makoura College, starting at about 1.30pm.

The college is also the starting point for each event with start times being: marathon 7am, half-marathon/walk 8am, half-marathon/run 9am, 10km fun run/walk 9.30am, 5km fun run/walk 10am.