Following the success of the inaugural event in 2014, The Tora Challenge will be returning this autumn. The adventure race is set in the heart of one of New Zealand’s best loved private multi-day walks, the Tora Coastal Walk.
The 2016 Tora Challenge will be held on Sunday 1st May, and will again feature a 6km or 18km run/walk or a 32km run. The Challenge will see participants cover the scenic route walked by hundreds of visitors every year.
“The Tora Challenge follows a stunning trail over private hill country and coastal farms, through river valleys and native bush and of course along the dramatic Tora coastline,” says Kiri Elworthy, one of the owners of the Tora Coastal Walk.
“The feedback from our first Challenge was really positive, despite some pretty wet and muddy conditions! We’ve made a few tweaks to the event this year to keep it fresh, like introducing a new course for the 18km track, and shifting the timing from September to May. The Challenge is the only time that we open up the walk like this to the public so it’s a wonderful opportunity for people to come and see a unique part of New Zealand, and challenge themselves at the same time.”
Kiri says all ages and abilities are catered for. All participants start at Stony Bay Lodge on the Tora Coast, 45 minute drive from Martinborough.
“Not only is there a family-friendly 6km leg that follows the coastline, but the 18km and 32km options both start and finish at Stony Bay Lodge this year, making it a real hub for participants and supporters.” she says.
They’re pleased to be able to also put back into the community, with The Life Flight Trust as the chosen charity this year.
“We’ve also got Tuturumuri School back on board to provide delicious food for our participants, and it works out really well as a bit of a fundrasier for them too.“
Registrations will open in mid February, and are expected to sell out fast. All 800 spots sold out in just 3 days in 2014.
People can register their interest beforehand, providing an early opportunity to book their tickets before they go on sale to the public.
For more information on The Tora Challenge or to register visit www.toracoastalwalk.co.nz.
