Race for all: Runners enjoying the track through the Redwoods as part of the Podium Rotorua half marathon last year. Photo/Running Events
Race for all: Runners enjoying the track through the Redwoods as part of the Podium Rotorua half marathon last year. Photo/Running Events
The noise of pounding feet will be heard in Rotorua as 1500 runners and walkers take to the roads to compete in the Podium Rotorua half marathon.
The revamped running festival, in its fourth year, has had a record number of entries but there's still time to enter.
The unique race experience showcases the natural, cultural and historic highlights that Rotorua has to offer.
Sunday's event also has a 10km race, 4km race and 2km kids' dash. Race director Rob Docherty said the day was specifically made "to fit all" with an easily accessible flat course.
On the road: Much of the Podium Rotorua Half Marathon course offers a flat fast running surface. Photo/ Running Events.
"We have been overwhelmed with the response this year following our relaunch. Entries are up almost 50 per cent on last year and we have smashed all previous records by a significant margin.
"But people can still enter and the day really does offer something for everyone. You don't have to be an expert runner to take part.
"What is different about this event is that it's a mainly flat course - that means runners and walkers can enjoy the day and take in more instead of struggling up hills.
"And you still get the variety. It offers a fresh experience around every corner."
The half marathon has proved particularly popular with 750 entries so far with international entries from the UK, Sweden, USA, Germany, Canada, Japan and Australia.
The course will feature a mass start on Fenton St, followed by a trip through the Redwoods forest, running through the thermally active Sulphur Bay tracks and finishing on Lakefront Dr.
Unique run: Runners pounding along the thermally active Sulphur Bay tracks. Photo/ Running Events
The running festival field has 400 local entries with 100 participants taking part from community-based outfit Rotorua Group Challenge, led by David Massey.
Massey said the event provided a "great motivator" to his members and he was impressed that half the Rotorua Group Challenge entries were children.
"This event has acted as a great goal and it sets the bench mark. About 40 of my group entered last year so it's brilliant to see the jump up in numbers and especially with kids.
"The extra shorter distances make it accessible for everyone and no one has to be struggling and straining up hills. They can run comfortably."
Massey also offered up some words of advice especially for six of his members tackling the half marathon distance for the first time.
"Enjoy the day," he said. "Finishing is the aim and a good time is an added bonus."
Final entries for the 2016 Podium Rotorua half marathon close online at 1pm Saturday. For more information and course details visit www.rotoruahalfmarathon.com.
Race registration is Saturday 4pm-8pm, Novotel Lakeside, Rotorua.
