Aussie veteran looking forward to 20th anniversary of Taupo event

Photo / Daily Post

There are myriad reasons for taking to the streets of Taupo next weekend for the 20th anniversary of the Mizuno Taupo Half Marathon.

The run and walk is widely regarded as one of the country's largest and pure half marathon events and has forged a special legacy over the past two decades.

This year it has attracted runners from a range of backgrounds and motivations to complete the 21.1km run or walk and join in on the celebration on Sunday, August 4.

Australia's Beth Mulligan has run all 19 of the Taupo Half Marathons so far and would not miss the 20th event for the world. "This is my 20th time doing the run in Taupo and I am very proud of this achievement," said the 58-year-old from Kenmore East.

Weight loss has also been a common inspiration for training for this event. Turangi's Leigh Jenkins, 30, has lost a huge amount of weight in the past 18 months and Omokoroa's Andy Russell, 34, has shed 24kg.

Both are looking to test their new fitness along the scenic course on the shores of Lake Taupo. Auckland runner Anne Barton is a first timer in the event and is looking to complete the run as part of her "49th year challenge".

Another first-timer is Waikanae's Graeme Joyes who is on the road to recovery. The 59-year-old had a heart attack and quadruple bypass in September 2011 and is looking forward to the challenge alongside his daughter who has also entered.

Waimauku's Nancy Cox is also up for the run with a family member. The 45-year-old, who has done the run once before, is running alongside her 10-year-old son "to keep him going".

Event organisers have the goal of attracting 1000 locals to the event.

"We have got very close to this in the past and it's a number we would love to achieve this year," said Keith Crate, the Taupo Half Marathon Society chairperson.

"So many locals have enjoyed increased health and fitness because of the great events that are offered in the region, we hope Sunday, August 4 is a day that lots of locals come out to celebrate that with us," said Crate.

One lucky runner will be celebrating more than others as he or she will win a trip for two to Hawaii, including airfares and seven nights' accommodation. The event is part of the 63.3 Series which features three half marathons over three months in three stunning locations.

Since its inception in 2009, the series has grown in popularity as people from around the North Island travel to Taupo.

Like previous years, profits from the event will go back to the community. Last year, the society raised more than $20,000 to help young athletes chase their sporting aspirations.