Hundreds hit local roads

The 38th annual Wairarapa Country Marathon Half Marathon and Fun Run/Walk yesterday drew hundreds of competitors, despite wintry conditions.

The event was organised by Athletics & Cycling Masterton, with all events starting and finishing at Makoura College.

It also celebrated Masterton Harriers centennial and incorporated the Wellington marathon championship.

Convener Craig Roberts said there were over 500 entries, which may have been boosted by the new 5km fun run event.

"We were hoping for more but the weather may have deterred some of the recreational runners," he said.

"If people trained for the marathon they'll come and run regardless of the weather."

Among the turnout were an 80-year-old woman who walked the circuit with a walking frame on wheels, a person on crutches and some residents from the Masonic Village.

"It's just great to see the participation - especially from the community," said Mr Roberts.

One Upper Hutt man was also competing in the Wairarapa marathon for the 35th time, and would receive a special prize.

Mr Roberts said despite the weather, volunteers turned up on time to get everything organised.

He said the majority of the runners come from out of the region, which boosts the local economy.

Sponsors included the Wairarapa Times-Age, Fagan Motors Limited, Mangin Graphics, WBS, Resene, Makoura College, Happy Valley Cycles, Hansells, The Sign Factory, More FM, Subway, Asics, and Fuji Xerox.

Representatives from Masterton Z service station helped at the event.

RESULTS: Winners (name/age group/time)

Marathon:

Andy Bennet, open age group, 2:50:26

Tim Horne, 40 - 49, 2:54:25

Mandy Simpson, 35 - 44, 3:13:38

Theo Bohnen, 50 - 59, 3:16:49

Doug Stirling, 60+, 3:22:58

Ingrid Frost, 45 - 54, 3:42:20

Hannah Cleland, female open age group, 3:44:08

Marian Hilder, 55+, 4:00:18

Half Marathon Run:

Dave Parsons, male open age group, 1:13:24

Kevin Pugh, 40 - 49 category, 1:20:47

Tony Price, 50 - 59 category, 1:22:26

Jackie Mexted, 35 - 44, 1:22:53

Jen Breukers, female open age group, 1:40:28

Ken Howell, 60+, 1:44:59

Leeann Lock, 45 - 54, 1:45:56

Robyne Blackford, 55+, 1:55:56

Half Marathon Walk:

Jon Roskvist, 40 - 49, 2:20:22

Grant Dyer, male open age group, 2:24:51

Brenda Farley, 45 - 54, 2:27:33

David Morrell, 60+, 2:29:30

Claire Smith, Female open age group, 2:36:48

Chris Paice, 50 -59, 2:37:30

Jenny Bucknell, 55+, 2:46:52

Rachel Thompson, 35 - 44, 3:02:54

10km Run/Walk:

Damien Lardner, 0:37:16

5km Run/Walk:

Claudia Green, 0:24:3