The run has also been challenged in recent years and has had to overcome adversity in those times.
The event’s old eastern suburbs course was devastated by the February 22, 2011 earthquake, which is being commemorated this week.
It was the first time in 37 years the event was cancelled but just one year later, Star Media found a new course and competitors flocked to participate again.
Then came the 2019 mosque shootings.
Rather than let March 15 stop the City2Surf, Star Media made the difficult decision to hold the event the following weekend. This helped lift community spirits at a time of grief.
Last year’s event was cancelled due to Covid-19, like many other events across Christchurch and the rest of the world.
For this reason, next month’s Les Mills City2Surf on March 21 is shaping up to be an extra special occasion, with thousands of people already entered to take part.
Star Media regional manager Steve McCaughan said: “This year may be our biggest yet. Star Media is honouring all entries bibs held over from last year and 2021 entries appear to also be very strong.
“The City2Surf is iconic with Cantabrians and this year we have another amazing prize pool for participants to win, plus we have drinks and giveaways on the finish line, where you can pick up your certificate.”
With less than a month to go, McCaughan said people should grab a friend or organise a work group and enter today.
This year’s supporting charity is the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.
- To enter the City2Surf or find out more, visit www.city2surf.co.nz
