Multisport organisers behind the Challenge Wanaka triathlon have launched a new River Run Trail series, as they seek to build Wanaka's reputation as a sporting destination.
The winner of the inaugural series of running races, to be held on river and lakeside trails around the Upper Clutha, will be awarded the John Pawson Trophy.
The trophy is named after Wanaka community figure John Pawson, a farmer, lodge owner and businessman who was instrumental in founding the Upper Clutha Tracks Trust which has become a driving force in developing trails and cycleways around the district.
Mr Pawson was killed in a climbing accident on Mt Aspiring in November 2008.
Riverrun Trail Series organisers EveNZ Consultancy - the event management team responsible for the Challenge Wanaka triathlon - will hold three races, taking in the Hawea River Track, the Clutha River Track, and the Glendhu Bay to Wanaka Millennium Track.
The event is being sponsored by the Riverrun Lodge, established by Mr Pawson and his wife, Meg Taylor, in 1996 when they first moved to Wanaka.
Ms Taylor has also set up the John Pawson Adventure Fund, which will also provide backing for the trail running series.
The Riverrun Trail Series will begin on October 17 with a 5km, 10km and half-marathon option on the Hawea River Track.
Race two, on February 19 next year, is a 14.1km run from Albert Town to Luggate on the Clutha River Track.
The final race in the series will be on May 21 from Glendhu Bay to Roys Bay in Wanaka via the Damper Bay and Waterfall Creek Track - a distance of 14.3km.
Riverrun Trail Series:
A series of three running races on Upper Clutha tracks.
Hawea River Track: Choice of a 5km, 10km, and 21km half-marathon between Lake Hawea and Albert Town - October 17, 2010.
Clutha River Track: 14.1km run from Albert Town to Luggate - February 19, 2011.
Lake Wanaka Millennium Track: 14.3km run from Glendhu Bay to Roys Bay - May 21, 2011.
