Hundreds of brave runners will soon endure an energy sapping 11.8km course, including 400 metres of vertical climb, as part of the 2009 Meridian Gutbuster in Wellington.
The March 1 event has a loop course, which begins in Karori, heads around Meridian's Brooklyn Wind Turbine at the half-way point, and then returns to Ben Burn Park for a family gala and prize giving.
The annual event is organised by Meridian, the combined Rotary Clubs of Wellington and Wellington Harriers, and Sports Impact.
Meridian Sponsorship coordinator Kay Eade says, despite its name, the Gutbuster is a pleasant day for the whole family to enjoy.
"This event is not just for serious competitors. While the runners are winding their way around the challenging course, there are a number of fun family activities in the park for everyone to enjoy," she says.
"We also have shorter courses available for the kids to run. Primary school-aged kids can register free in either the 1km or 3.4km mountain runs, which begin at Ben Burn Park after the start of the main race," she added.
There are many different categories competitors can enter including team, corporate, veterans, juniors and walkers.
Following the day's racing, prizes, including spot prizes, will be awarded at Ben Burn Park, from around 11.30am.
"We have a fantastic range of prizes on offer, including Brooks shoes and merchandise, a season ski pass to Mt Ruapehu, and a kids mountain bike. All men who reach the wind turbine in under 30 minutes, and women under 35 minutes, will become part of the Turbine Club and receive a free cap," says Kay Eade.
"The Meridian Gutbuster is always popular, and it's more special this year as the city's Makara wind farm West Wind nears completion. We're expecting plenty of Wellingtonians to turn up and take on the track," she added.
The day starts with a pre-race briefing at 8:45am. Wave starts across the categories commence from 9:00am.
Those who wish to enter The Meridian Gutbuster can register free at The Shoe Clinic, Willis Street, from 12pm - 2pm, 27-28 February, or visit www.coolrunnings.co.nz.
Event information
Event: Meridian Gutbuster
Location: Ben Burn Park, Karori, Wellington
Date: 1 March 2009
