Rotorua Marathon 2021 men 's medal-winners were (from left) Greg Darbyshire, second; winner Michael Voss, and Ewan Sinclair, who was third. Photo / Andrew Warner
Rotorua Marathon 2021 men 's medal-winners were (from left) Greg Darbyshire, second; winner Michael Voss, and Ewan Sinclair, who was third. Photo / Andrew Warner
Queen's Drive was lined with people last Saturday as friends and family came out in force to support those taking part in the Rotorua Marathon events.
I took part in the 5.5km, and can say from experience that it is such encouragement and a massive boost down that last stretchwhen crowds of people are there cheering participants on.
I stayed for a while after my run to watch others finish the races, and it was such a heart-warming time.
There were whoops, cheers and clapping as people conquered the finish line.
There were children running the last few metres hand-in-hand with their participating parent.
It was super special to see members of Achilles make their way down the finishing shoot with their guides, and a few participants on crutches didn't let that stop them from completing the courses.
The number of t-shirts representing different charities and loved ones was so touching to see, and reading people's attire while running certainly kept me distracted from any discomfort I was feeling!
While it's awesome to give our best, reach personal goals and strive for times, I believe one of the greatest things about big events like this one is seeing communities coming together.
