Event founder and patron Wayne Allen said the cool, overcast conditions were "perfect" for the 400 runners and walkers who had come from across the South for the tight-knit community event.
However, only one of those competitors was expected to receive a special plaudit this year, Mr Allen said.
"We give out five, 10 and 20-year medals to competitors who have notched up the necessary number of finishes, but we only have one likely 20-year recipient this year.
"The funny thing is, he didn’t know he was due to receive it, so he almost missed out."
Mr Allen said the competitor in question — James Park, of Dunedin — had been earmarked to do the recently introduced 5km "canter" instead of the full 15.5km run or walk through varied Catlins scenery.
"Well, as soon as I told him he just needed one more full circuit for his 20-year medal, he changed over to the full walk."
Mr Allen said he was "proud" of the event’s pedigree in introducing people to a lifetime of athletic endeavour.
"We’ve had a lot of people who started out just doing the walk here, then progressed to running the course, and who have since gone on to do marathons and the like.
"That’s what’s special about the race: it’s an achievable challenge that can show you what you’re capable of, all to the backdrop of the beautiful Catlins."
Mr Allen, 77, handed over organisation of the event to Sport Clutha in 2019.
Sport Clutha regional co-ordinator Craig Gordon said the event was on an upwards trend for participation.
"This is the biggest number we’ve had under Sport Clutha, which is great to see.
"It’s an event that relies on the whole community to come together and make it a success ... so we’re very grateful for everyone’s contribution."
He said all proceeds from the event — expected to be about $8000 — would be returned to local good causes.
