Three options in Stadium to Surf run

Training on Portsmouth Dr before of this weekend’s Stadium to Surf Fun Run are (from left) Graham...
Training on Portsmouth Dr before of this weekend’s Stadium to Surf Fun Run are (from left) Graham and Katie (7) Murphie, of North Taieri, and Monique Wright, with baby Ari Smith (3 months) (in the front pack) and daughter Sloane Smith (in the pushchair). Photo: Linda Robertson.
It will be sweat and toil tomorrow, as the Stadium to Surf event gets under way.

The event offers the traditional 10km run from Forsyth Barr Stadium to Hancock Park and also includes 3km and 5km options, for those who want to get a sweat-up.

The event has attracted 1200 competitors in its fifth year.

Starting from Forsyth Barr Stadium at 10am, the 10km event follows the harbour basin and along Portsmouth Dr, before heading up Bayfield Rd and along Tahuna and Victoria Rds to Kettle Park, before doubling back to finish at Hancock Park.

The 3km and 5km events start at Hancock Park at 10.15am, taking in Kettle Park, and for the 5km, parts of John Wilson Ocean Drive. Post-race offerings at Hancock Park include a family fun zone with ‘have a go’ sports, food and coffee vendors, and a children’s play area. The event is not just for runners. Walkers are most welcome.

Event organiser Sport Otago business development and event manager Michael Smith said it was a great annual event for Dunedin and this year it was aiming to cater for all age groups by having a mixtureof 10km, 5km and 3km run/walks.

"It will be great to get everyone along, running or walking in their event, and looking forward to a good day."

"It is a real family day at Hancock Park with lots of options on offer. Families can be active together in plenty of different sports."

Athletics Otago board chairwoman Megan Gibbons said the event was a great boost for Dunedin.

"It’s great for everyone who wants to get out and have a go at something new. With all the different races there is a real opportunity for families and friends to get involved in some fun," she said.

"For Athletics Otago it is a great partnership with Sport Otago and helps out our young athletes."

Gibbons was yet to confirm whether she would line up in the event but may do one of the shorter races.

The event is supported by Sport Otago, Athletics Otago and the Otago Daily Times. It is sponsored by the Athlete’s Foot.Smith hoped the event would grow into a yearly Sunday morning occasion for people from Dunedin and further afield.

Running on the flat made it slightly easier than most runs around Dunedin, which take in the hills.

Late registrations are possible on the day, with details at www.stadiumtosurf.co.nz, although there is a late entry fee. Wet weather is forecast for tomorrow. 

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