§staticmap(8863,5,450,250)Hello, on December 10th 2011, you’ll be organizing the Wanganui 3 Bridges Marathon. Can you tell us where it is located?
Wanganui is on the West Coast of the North Island of New Zealand – approx 3 hours North of Wellington.
How old is the race and why was it created in the first place?
This is our 8th year of the event.
What kind of route have you set up for the runners? How would you describe it?
It is a 4-lap course for the Marathon. It is generally flat with the occasional undulation. Surfaces are mainly paved with some pathway and a small section of grass.
500 in all events with approx. 100 for the Marathon. The events are set up for the participants rather than the elite although we do attract the occasional top level athlete i.e. the Half Marathon record is 1 hr 7 min. The Marathon record is approx. 2 hrs 40 min.
Do you organize other races during the Week-End? If so, on what distances?
Apart from the Marathon, there is a Half Marathon, 10km and 5km.
At that time of the year, what kind of weather can we expect?
Generally temperate but can vary i.e. windy, sometimes humid.
Have you planned festivities around the marathon?
Just the proze-giving afterwards.
The race finished, what advice would you give a runner who has never been to Wanganui before? A good restaurant, a fancy sightseeing?
Take a trip on the Waimarie up the Whanganui River. We have plenty of good restaurants i.e. Big Orange, Angola, Brick House spring to mind.
In a single sentence, what would you tell the readers of ahotu Marathons to make them register for the Wanganui 3 Bridges Marathon?
At NZD35.00 entry it is great value where our aim is to cater for ALL athletes – and not just the elite. This is an event where the focus is on friendliness so that you can come back next year.
Interview with Roger Morrison, Race director. Roger is also an avid marathon runner, having completed 112 marathons. His emphasis on running events is enjoyment while catering for the athletes needs.