Whether it’s riding, running or just walking to admire the view, the Skyline Challenge 2025 was quite the experience.
“‘Awesome’ was how Nick Cox described his run, while Judy Rayner described the track as ‘beautiful,’” said Martinborough Lions Skyline Team member Lee Quayle.
“We’re so happy with the feedback from participants and these two give you just a small inkling of the tremendously positive response we received to the new courses, and to the organisation. Each year gets better and better,” he added.
Skyline Challenge was held on local farms just outside Martinborough on 29 March, with upwards of 240 people taking part in a series of riding, running and walking events on a fabulously sunny and, ultimately, warm Autumn Saturday.
“We have to acknowledge the farmers here. Without them we couldn’t run the event and without them participants wouldn’t have the opportunity to be on these properties, enjoying the tracks, experiencing the outdoors and delighting in the spectacular views,” said Lee.
Skyline Challenge is an annual fundraising event for Martinborough Lions, with proceeds from this year’s event going to Martinborough Volunteer Fire Brigade’s Medical First Response Service.
This specialist group of volunteer first responders are trained to deal with medical emergencies until an ambulance can arrive. Funds raised will be going towards specialist equipment.
“While final figures are not yet available we can say that the fire brigade will be receiving a donation of at least $10,000 from this event,” said Lee. “A grand result for all concerned.”
The event is only possible because of the sponsorship and support of the Martinborough community. “Our major sponsor was Green Jersey Explorer Tours again this year,” he noted, “but there are many many more people who help us to provide this fun fundraising event for our locals and for visitors alike. We take this opportunity to say thank you to them for their help.”
Next year’s event promises to be bigger, brighter and better; date for the calendar: Saturday 11 April 2026.
