Marathon Run
Course Description
Starting at The Stables, you have a flat start through a couple of paddocks before you start a steady climb up a gravel road. When you get to the first stream crossing, look to your right and you’ll see a Hobbit! Just after the second stream crossing, you’ll get to your first aid station. Make sure you take enough time to sample all the treats on offer before embarking on the most undulating section of the course.
You’ll have approx. 5km of rolling farmland, native bush and an abundance of wildlife so if you’ve got your camera, there will be plenty of deer, sheep, and cattle ready for a selfie for sure. This section has some climbs that can pinch a bit, so our advice is conserve here, there is still some climbing to be done. After the 5km you reach your next aid station at the Horse Trough where we’re sure you’ll be happy to take in the view and re fuel with some gourmet goodies.
Next up for you is the much talked about Beech Forest, approx. 6km of old growth native forest…expect more uphill in the first half, the bonus is you’ll not be moving at a great pace to take it all in.
Finishing the Beech forest, you have a fairly steep descent into the Quarry where you’ll find your next aid station and a whole new selection of yum stuff. Leaving the quarry, you’ll spend the next approx. 6km stretching out on some reasonably flat gravel and grass road towards the southern end of the property surrounded by sheep, deer, cattle and some of the biggest hare we’ve ever seen.
At approx. 23km you will come across the very scenic and historic Red Hut where you will have your next aid station. Make sure you take a moment here and appreciate how tranquil this spot is while enjoying some cheese and crackers on us. Once you leave the Red Hut you will cross the Poronui Bridge and head towards the infamous Mohaka River. Head down the hill and take in the amazing view and sounds of the Mohaka River. Once you pass the hidden Poronui Hut, you have approx. 4km of undulating, but mainly flat gravel road, before you are greeted by your next aid station and once again some gourmet offerings that will be well worth taking in.
Once you exit the farmland and reach the ford its decision time…feet a little hot? Cool them off in the ford. Pretty happy staying dry? Take the bridge option and make your way to the final refreshment stop.
Located just 1km from the finish, the Beer Mile. Pick up a refreshing beverage and make your way along the flat gravel road flanked by cattle and deer back to The Stables…Job well done!
Course Details
Elevation gain 757m
Farm land 3%
Farm track 25%
Forestry road 30%
Scenic bush 25%
Gravel road 17%
Aid Stations
There are five aid stations on course at 5km, 10km, 18km, 23km, and 34km. You will expect a range of exciting food and drink - water, hydration drink, coffee, lollies, sandwiches, chocolate coated coffee beans, and much more.
There is also the infamous Beer Mile, ride, run, or walk the last 1km with a cold beverage!
Start Information
The start is from The Stables at 9:00am. The participant briefing is at 8:50am.
Participants are given 8 hours to complete the course. There is a cut off at 1pm at the 23km mark, where you may be directed on a short cut (shortening the course by 4km).
Compulsory Gear
Poronui can be very cold and the weather temperamental at this time of the year so there will be the need to bring and carry compulsory gear. The following list of gear MUST be brought with you, and WILL be checked on Saturday morning pre-event. Please bring the following or you risk not being able to get out there to do your thing;
Long-sleeve thermal or poly-prop tee
Survival blanket or bag
Seam-sealed waterproof jacket (long-sleeve)
If the forecast is for inclement weather, we recommend carrying the items below:
Beanie, thermal or poly-prop
Gloves, thermal or poly-prop
Tights or leggings, thermal or poly-prop