The masses show up for New Zealand’s biggest fun run

The masses show up for New Zealand’s biggest fun run

More than 25,000 people turned up to run, walk, wheel, and be pushed or carried from Auckland’s CBD to St Heliers for the 44th annual Ports of Auckland Round the Bays today.

The fastest man across the line was five-time winner Jonathan Jackson with a time of 26 minutes, while the fastest female finisher was Olivia Burne with a time of 28 minutes. Lee Warn was the fastest wheelchair athlete finishing the 8.4km course in 36 minutes in a panda suit.

Dressed-up in everything from lobster costumes to company logos, thousands of participants packed the 8.4km course, before arriving at the Finish Zone at Vellenoweth Green to enjoy post-race snacks, drinks, games and a live performance from up-and-coming DJ, Tyler Christie.

Fairfax National Events Manager, Brett McMeekin says the event was an unquestionable success, with participants enjoying a beautifully clear and still day with near perfect conditions for the run, followed by fantastic entertainment in the Finish Zone.

“The sun was out and everyone was in high spirits after the event. Participation has really taken off in past few years - and the fact that we donated $50,000 to five very worthy charities just tops off the fantastic day.”

Five official charities – CanTeen, Shine (Safer Homes in NZ Everyday), Garden to Table Trust, Riding for the Disabled and Heart Kids New Zealand – will share the charity donation generated by the event.

Hundreds of other charities also benefitted from individuals and groups participating in the race, with an additional $133,000 raised by participants supporting a cause of their choice.

Ports of Auckland Round the Bays is made possible through the support of Stuff.co.nz, Ports of Auckland, Nature’s Fresh, Pump, DB Export, Watercare, Brooks, and LoveNZ, with strategic partner the Auckland Joggers Club.

ENDS

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