The Skyline Challenge ride, run and walk has a new date this year – Saturday 29 March.
“We’ve moved the date forward to March to take advantage of hopefully better weather,” said organiser Lee Quayle. “Moving from April to March should give us more settled and warmer weather for participants.”
“We’ve also responded to feedback about the courses and made significant changes to their length and design.”
Thus, the 32km course has been shortened to 28km. There’s also less elevation than previous years with maximum elevation gain being 183m, a good 150m less than the gut-buster of a 32km ride that used to be included.
“Less climbing and a shorter distance over these new courses will make for more enjoyment for riders and runners alike – but still challenging for serious riders and runners,” added Lee.
“The new course also has more formed pathways and fewer cross-paddock trails.”
A figure-of-eight design is included in the circuit this year which means a more compact layout than in previous years, while the extra loop offers participants the option to shorten or lengthen their run/ride.
The 20km course covers all of the same ground as the longer 28km course – differs only in length. “If you tried the 19km in previous years and found it tough going then you’ll find this new course much more enjoyable, whether you run or ride,” Lee promised.
The 9km course is a loop around the lower reaches of the hills, providing challenge-enough for novice and younger runners and riders.
“The track undulates and the terrain offers plenty of variety,” he noted. “This year we are offering the option of extending the base course to go up to Camp David where you can enjoy the views and fill your drinks bottles.”
“Our single most popular event is the 10km walk, attracting up to half the entries. This is a dedicated 10 km scenic walk which will take participants out the back of the historic Huangarua Station, dropping down through a bush walk, before climbing up to Camp David, for a refreshing cool drink and wonderful views over the South Wairarapa and the vineyards in autumn bloom, before following the skyline ridge back to the start.”
All courses offer spectacular views of Martinborough vineyards, as well as views of Lake Wairarapa and the distant Kaikoura Range – usually only seen by sheep, cattle and some lucky farm workers.
Entries are now open for all events. Register at: skylinechallenge.co.nz
“With the PumpTrack now up and running we’ve looked elsewhere within our community for us to support,”says Lee. “So this year proceeds from the event … will be going to the Martinborough Volunteer Fire Brigade.
“This community fundraising event organised by Martinborough Lions would not be possible without the generous support of our principal sponsor Green Jersey Explorer Tours.
“We also have support fromnew sponsors in 2025: Union Square, P & K Four Square, Martinborough Hotel, Cotter & Stevens, Tora Coastal Walk, Mint at Martinborough.”
