Know before you go - AdventureSmart

Mike Coombe, last years series winner, in WanakaMike Coombe, last years series winner, in Wanaka
(Photo: Kathmandu Riverrun Trail Series; click to enlarge)

The countdown is on for the Kathmandu Riverrun Trail Series with runners of all ages and abilities from across the South Island signing up for Race 1 this Saturday.

Kicking off with a 5km, 10km and half marathon option on the scenic Hawea River Track, it is an ideal early season race with achievable distances for the whole family. Runners from Christchurch to Dunedin, Invercargill and the Southern Lakes region have already entered and will be on the start line this weekend.

Race director Victoria Murray-Orr believes it is a great time to kick-start the summer training. "With the warmer weather upon us it is exciting to see people are getting active and giving it a go, and with a substantial prize pool plenty of athletes will be rewarded for their efforts. Grab your friends and family and make it a fun social occasion to enjoy Lake Wanaka's stunning tracks," she said.

There are thousands of dollars worth of prizes including cash prizes for place getters, vouchers for local cafes, restaurants, Kathmandu vouchers, chocolate, book vouchers, entries to the local swimming pool, Te Araroa guidebooks and much more. All competitors will receive two free Runners World magazines and be in the draw to win subscriptions.

Now in its third year, the Kathmandu Riverrun Trail Series encourages people to stay fit and healthy throughout the year and to set personal goals. The John Pawson Trophy will be awarded to the fastest male and female competitors over the whole series.

The tracks in the Series include:

Race 1 - Hawea Track: 5km, 10km, half marathon, 10 November 2012
Race 2 - Clutha Track: 16 February 2013
Race 3 - Outlet Track: 13 April 2013
Race 4 - Glendhu Bay Track: 18 May 2013.

All the tracks in the Series are challenging in their own respects.

The Riverrun Trail Series is generously supported by Riverrun, Kathmandu, the Pawson Adventure Fund, Water Bar, Patagonia Chocolates, Wanaka Health and Radio Wanaka.

For the online entry form and further information please visit www.trailseries.co.nz. Entries online are open until 9am Friday 9 November. Competitors can enter on the day with a late entry fee applying.