The 23rd staging of the popular Molesworth Run through NZ’s largest farm was completed sat 17th in ideal conditions resulting in some impressive times and intense competition.
Seven soloists, five, two-person teams and forty-four, four-person teams battled the dust, stones altitude and changeable weather, that defines this event as a challenge not to be taken lightly.
Kiwi runner, now resident in Australia, Brent Harris made a return to the solo field this year, completing the grueling 84km in 7hrs 26min 41 sec. A keen competitor in this event, Harris maintains he will continue competing until he breaks the 7-hour mark.
Top Marlborough distance runner Robbie Barnes put in a gutsy performance having competed in several recent distance events to finish 2nd in a creditable 7. 51. 45
Stephen Blackwell followed in 8.07.36, with our own Jono Leach crossing the line in 9.02.48.
Katie Wright was 1st woman across the line in a smart 9.14 38
The two-person relay, (both competitors completing the marathon distance) was won by the Ben Wallbank, Tanya Bottomley combination in an impressive time of 7.25.06.
The Marlborough/Nelson teaming of experienced ultra-distance runner Margaret Hazelwood and Andrew Barker completed in 8.22.11.
First across the line in the 4-person team event was the impressive mixed team combination of Lisa Brignull, Shane Cross, Don Greig and Alex Simmonds in a quick time of 6.32.41.
The Marlborough open men’s teaming of Dale Smit, Eliot Roe, Seb Baachus and Cameron Kain chased valiantly to finish some 14 minutes later in a creditable time of 6.46.54.
First in the women’s category was the pairing of Kristin Dovey, Simona Avery, Izzy Jensen and Dannielle Taylor in a time of 8.05.19.
Full results from a memorable day in the high country can be seen on the Marlborough Harrier Club website.
Organisers wish to thank the great bunch of competitors who made the 23rd running of this event another great day enjoyed by all.
Maurice Brown
Race Convenor.
Full results can be found here.
Pete Marshall’s photos can be found here.
Dale Smit’s photos here
Kim Bacchus photos here.
