Rotorua Half Marathon
2nd May
2014

 

Official Result

Anne Barnicoat 2.18.36 2nd LV65


I had originally entered the marathon but 'downgraded' to the half 4 weeks ago when side-lined with a knee injury.  It was my 2nd half in NZ and this was an amazing experience.  The 50th running of the event was celebrated in quite spectacular style.  Expo on the Friday had a huge variety of stands.  We travelled down and stayed in Ngongotaha on the Thurs and enjoyed the local attractions.  With walking being a very popular pastime the 2,000 half marathoners all lined up together!  A Maori blessing came over the tannoy 30 secs before the start and everyone fell silent.  The start was marked by the traditional conch shell fanfare and the Maori's performed one of their very impressive Haka's  at the start line. The usual slow march to the start line when we promptly came to a halt, mainly walkers stopping to enjoy and take pictures of the Haka!!  Progress was so slow for the first 1.5k but that's Kiwi style.  Wheels fell off at mile 11 but I've lived to fight another day and have a very special tee shirt.  

Anne Barnicoat


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