The inaugural Whangamata Multisport Challenge was a huge success

Competitors came from all over the North Island and as far away as Christchurch to compete in the event on the 25th of November. The 42km race course took competitors on an epic adventure across the ocean, beaches and bush of Whangamata.

Competition was fierce in the men's race. Sam Manson and Luke Osborne led after the 8km kayak, closely followed by JJ Wilson from Christchurch. Wilson showed good form on the 9km coastal run to move into first place. He then narrowly held onto his lead on the 25km mountain bike to win the race. The women's race played out in similar fashion. Emily Wilson led off the kayak, only to be passed by Corrine Smit on the run stage. Smit backed up her run with a strong mountain bike to win the race. In the teams event local knowledge came to the fore with Whangamata team BJB taking first place. The winners were awarded impressive trophies that were hand carved by local Whangamata artist Riki Tipene. 

Race director Ryan Thompson was pleased with the inaugural event. "Whangamata is a stunning place to race and the competitors simply loved the course," said Mr Thompson. "I got a lot of positive feedback, especially about the run stage, and people are really keen to come back and race in Whangamata again next year."

The race will take place again in November 2015 so keep an eye out for the next edition of the Whangamata Multisport Challenge.



Individual Womens Champion Corrinne Smit finishing the run leg



Start of the paddle leg



Individual Mens Champion JJ Wilson being awarded his trophy

Results
Individual Men - JJ Wilson - Christchurch
Individual Women - Corrinne Smit - Whakatane
Team - BJB - Whangamata - Braedon Williams, Ben Kennings, Justin Leach.