RUNNING

Growing Greater by the Years

By Sport Manawatu

More than 2,600 participants will adorn their lycra and running shoes on Saturday at the largest Great Forest Events to date.

Great Forest Events has grown substantially since it started in 1996 attracting 759 participants in its second year. With registrations 20 percent higher than last year, 2013 is proving to be the most successful yet.

Held in the Waitarere Forest in Levin, Great Forest Events is an off road marathon, half marathon, fun run and walk.

Sport Manawatu Events Advisor, Kathy McMillan says the event has grown from strength to strength, and developed its own niche.

“The neat thing about the event is it’s not something that can be easily replicated in other places, and people love getting together with groups of friends or family members and making a weekend of it.”

Former Chairperson of the Great Forest Events Society, Alison Gracey is amazed by the growing success of the event and its positive contribution to the community.

“It is truly amazing that people come from all over the country to participate in an event in our region. With over 100 full marathon runners this year, and a medal for every participant the event is inspirational for all involved.”

Great Forest Events is in its seventeenth year and Society Chairperson, Cushla McColl says the success of the events is a tribute to the series of dedicated committees made entirely of volunteers.

Organizers of the event have worked hard to make the registration process easier, and promote the event to the wider community.