Four in a row

Hamish Elliott made it four in a row as he defended his Challenge Wanaka multi title once again in tough conditions on Saturday.

Elliott claimed the overall men’s title in 2hr 32min, holding off rising star Jordan Sutherland by one minute.

Strong winds forced organisers to make a rapid call to cancel the kayak leg of the multi race, turning it into a 43km muddy mountain bike, followed by a 14km trail run.

That had a bigger impact on the women’s multi race.

Strong kayakers Simone Maier and Elina Ussher lost their advantage, giving Emily Trevail and Natalie Phillips their chance to shine.

Trevail won in 2hr 48min, while local favourite Phillips followed her in second.

In the men’s duathlon, Hunter Gough powered away after a close bike leg to win in 2hr 34min.

Maeve Williams defended her women’s duathlon title, powering away to a 14-minute win.