This week

Today and tomorrow is Alert Level 4. The government has announced that from Wednesday onwards we are at Alert Level 3. Under Alert Level 4, no organised athletics or group trainings are allowed to take place, and those wishing to continue training must do so in alignment with the Level 4 guidelines, specifically:

  • You are allowed to exercise, both at home and in your immediate neighbourhood.
  • If you are exercising, it must be solitary, or with those you live with.
  • You must try to maintain 2m distance from anyone who is not in your ‘bubble’.
  • Do not do activities that may require search and rescue services, for example, do not go swimming, surfing, boating, hunting or tramping.
  • If you are unwell, do not go outside.
  • Remember that public facilities such as gyms and playgrounds must be closed.

Due to the differences in the delta variant of COVID-19, the sport guidance under Alert Level 3 and Alert Level 2 is likely to differ from advice previously issued. SportNZ will issue that advice on it’s website. The COVID-19 Outdoors website also contains useful, accurate information on what you can do.

The coming weeks will include cancellations and postponements. Keep an eye on our Facebook group for the latest news, and information on any socially distant events and activities we organise.

Results

Antrim Coast Half Marathon, Northern Ireland

The Antrim Half Marathon featured a world record and, more importantly, the currently-rare sight of two Wellington Scottish singlets. Dan Rakic ran a PB 1:33:12 and Katie Murphy 1:52:15.

Results

Coming up (provisional on Alert Levels)

Hutt Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km 5km and Kids’ Kilometre, 12 September

A flat and scenic course along both sides of the Hutt River. Register before September 1 to avoid the late fee. There are cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in marathon, half and 10km.

Race details and entry

Wellington Road Running Champs, postponed and potentially on 18 September

The Wellington Road Champs is the last of the four big interclub races for the year. It is a great opportunity to run a fast 5km or 10km time with a large pack of runners to pull you along. It is held in the scenic Wainuiomata Recreation Area. The course is an out-and-back road race using a 1.25km stretch of road that is closed to public traffic. The course is largely sheltered from the wind. 

Details

September Relays: Marton-Whanganui and Paekākāriki-Pekapeka

There are two road relays coming up in the next month which people might want to give a go before NZ Road Relay in October. On Saturday 12 September is the Marton to Whanganui Relay. Teams of up to ten run a variety of different legs on a scenic and historic course along backcountry roads. And the following weekend is the Paekākāriki to Pekapeka Kāpiti Expressway Relay, with 4 legs of approximately 5km each. If anyone is keen in being in a team for either or both relays, let me know and I will try to compile some teams and team captains.

Tanadees Cup and Arkwright Cup, 25 September

The Tanadees and Arkwright Cups Race is an 8km handicapped race around the Evans Bay/Balaena Bay waterfront. We meet beforehand at the Kilbirnie Pool then the race starts from the Wind Needle in Kilbirnie. It is a good opportunity for a flat road race to sharpen up before NZ Road Relays.

Victoria University of Wellington Athletics Club members joins us for this race to compete for their Sherwood Cup.

Belvedere Block Relay and Half Marathon, West Carterton, 25 September

The Belvedere Block Relay and Half Marathon is open to teams of three or individuals – walkers and runners. It takes part on a three lap course over undulating road.

Details and entry form

Notices

Register for NZ Road Relays trip to Akaroa, 2 October

The subsidised price for NZ Road Relays trip is $140. That includes accommodation, rental van transport in Christchurch, race entry and dinner on Saturday night. That just leaves you to get yourself to Christchurch. There are cheaper rates for supporters, or those who do not need accommodation and/or Saturday night dinner. There will also be an option to purchase premium accommodation for some who want it. For more details contact Alistair Collow or John Gardiner.

Register

Keep in touch with the club

Thanks to Michelle for this week’s photo. And also to Della, for sending this one: