A record number of runners will take to Dunedin’s hills tomorrow morning.
The Three Peaks Mountain Race has again attracted record entries.
It has already surpassed last year’s record 350 runners and will likely have about 380 competitors registered come start time.
Last year’s numbers had been a significant rise on the previous record of 220.
The plus-one event, which involved the regular 26km course, as well as an additional loop which this year made for a total of 55km, was a factor in that.
It had been run for the first time last year and drew 83 entrants.
There were 80 confirmed so far for that event this year. The track has been adjusted slightly in taking out 4km of road and adding 7km of trail.
But the most popular remains the traditional 26km race, which climbs Flagstaff, Swampy Summit and Mount Cargill.
Race organiser Steve Tripp said the event was growing, just as the sport was and it was one people would travel to.
"It’s increasing, it’s a growth sport and the Three Peaks has grown in popularity.
"It’s seen throughout New Zealand as an iconic race.
"This is its 38th year of running.
"It’s a big thing."
Chris Bisley will be back to defend the men’s plus-one title, while last year’s third-placed runner Tom Spencer is also back.
Rose Pearson will mount a strong challenge in the women’s race.
In the 26km race there s plenty of quality in the likes of Ryan Carr and Julen Moreno, while there was potential for more high quality in the late entrants.
The plus one-race begins at 6am, while the other distances begin at 9am.
All finish at Chingford Park.
