The longest course has been lengthened to a half marathon, helping those heading off to the Coast-to-Coast and other distance races to get in some serious training.
However, the emphasis of the Vine Run remains firmly on a friendly, fun, family event with two shorter courses — 6kms and 10kms run/walks — catering for all.
People are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch to the January 29, 2023, event, and enjoy it in the lawns of Pegasus Bay Winery after the run, where there will be entertainment, and live music, and some food options.
Over $100,000 has been raised for the New Zealand Brain Research Institute (NZBRI) since the event began in 2018. It was hobbled in January this year by Covid-19 protocols, but its hoped for a good turn out next January.
Organiser Mike Donaldson says the longer course will appeal to a broader range of runners, and while the course, which takes in a couple of neighbours properties, is quite challenging, but will also provide some pretty beautiful scenery out to sea and over the Waipara Valley.
The winery is owned by Mike’s parents Ivan and Christine. Ivan has been a member of the NZBRI board since 2006 and established Friends of the NZBRI to raise funds for neurological research.The Institute focuses on understanding more about neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. He has had a distinguished career as a neurologist and was named a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to neurology in 2013. He is also a wine writer and wine judge.
All proceeds from entry fees go to the institute. It is $70 per adult ($40 for under
18) for the 6km run/walk; $80 ($45), for the 10km run/walk, and $99 for the half marathon which is only open to adult entries (18, and over). You can register as an individual or a group at vinerun.co.nz or the Vine Run Facebook page.
