This was the last in a series of events put on by Sport Northland as part of the run walk series 2011. And as with most things they definitely saved the best for last. The 21.2km course is one of New Zealand’s most gentle races (if you can call a half marathon gentle!) and they say people often get their best times here. Our wonderful group of walkers and runners had been training hard since July, building to a 19km run/ walk a couple of weeks prior to the event. Some had walked or ran the Kerikeri in the past, but for most it was a first time experience. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect wit blue sky, some small clouds and a slight breeze.

 The Kerikeri half marathon has something for everyone, because even if you are a support person or spectator you still get to join in on the electric atmosphere. The finish line itself even has things for kids, like a bouncy castle and there is a live band playing leading up to the prize giving, so you can sit back and enjoy everyone’s jubilation as they achieve their goal.

This year their was even a “Pie Guy” who had been challenged to eat a pie every kilometre of the race for charity. By the 10km mark the pies aparently weren’t staying down long, with people commenting that the pie still smelled the same even after it had been thrown up!! Yuk! To be honest I was glad, because at least it put around 1000 people off pies!

 Kerikeri also puts on an amazing street market on the Saturday evening after the race from 5pm to 9pm, which has a selection of food and wine stalls and gifts and crafts. They close off the main street, so it has that really great feel to it. There is also plenty of live music to keep your toes taping (if you can move your legs that is!)

  A big congratulations to the following people, who were just some of the 2,400 people that competed in the Kerikeri Half this year. Your motivation and dedication to making it to your goal was inspirational.

Gavin Carroll

Jo Stanhope

Richard Kidd

Dianne Ogle

Sharon Carroll

Lynda Bradley

Nigel Bradley

Sara Murray

Damien Murray

Yvonne Boates

Melody Tito 

For more information on the 2011 run walk series visit www.runwalkseries.co.nz

 I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible turning your dreams of becoming fitter, healthier and stronger in 2012 into success.