Exciting backyard run ... with fabulous views

Jacks Point, an emerging settlement on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Photo / Supplied

Elite mountain runner Andrew Town was spending a small fortune in time and money travelling around New Zealand and Australia to compete.

Yet Town knew there were fabulous trails to run in his own backyard.

"I thought, hang on, here I am travelling all over the country to race when I can come up with one of the best courses in a stunning location right here."

Towns' "backyard" is Jacks Point, an emerging settlement on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The area is fast becoming popular with those wanting to escape the rush of Queenstown and has a world-class golf course, wetlands, reserves and myriad walking and biking trails.

Town created the Jacks Point Trail Run which will have its first outing on Saturday, September 5. There are two distance options - a 7km trail run/walk that will be a great induction for those new to off-road, and a half-marathon for more seasoned runners.

Town has designed both courses to deliver a true trail experience with a heady mix of technical single track, climbs, fast flat sections - and all with uncompromising views.

"The 'wow' factor for this event is without a doubt the scenery, an absolutely stunning vista across Lake Wakatipu towards Walter and Cecil Peaks, and south down towards Kingston, with the impressive backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range."

Town draws on his mountain and trail running experience to offer some advice to participants attempting an off-road event for the first time.

"Preparing for this event you will need to run off-road and find trails that have ups and downs. Run strongly on the hills and push yourself on the downs. Practice this, and your natural ability and co-ordination will improve dramatically, not to mention your fitness. Find trails that are quite demanding with technical elements and uneven terrain and this will increase your foot and eye balance and make it easier on the day."

As well as the two formal events, Town has scheduled a puppy and pushchair-friendly family fun run - entry is by donation to the Dog Rescue charitable trust. Everyone is welcome to the fun run, which racers can use to warm up for their official event.