The long-range weather forecast is looking fine with light winds, which are ideal conditions for completing the 21.1 km half marathon, 11 km or the 5km run/walk this weekend.

The Jarden 21.1km half marathon, United Airlines 11km and Bay of Plenty Times 5km events all take in a lap of the mighty Mauao and finish on the sand of Mount Maunganui Main Beach, highlighting the best parts this amazing city has to offer.

Every finisher receives a medal for their efforts, and there are plenty of spot prizes on offer for all competitors, including the major prize of flights for 2 people ex Auckland to San Francisco thanks to United Airlines. Corporates and Clubs/Gyms can also fight for bragging rights in the 11km City to Surf Team Challenge.

The event industry, like so many other industries in New Zealand, has had to work very hard to stay in business with rising costs affecting everything, says Managing Director of Event Promotions Murray Fleming.

“It’s been difficult to balance these costs with the entry fees remaining low enough for people to be able to participate.”

Everyone can go and run these courses whenever they want to, and that is great thanks to the local council providing those opportunities, Says Murray. However, attending these events offers the competitors the full experience of the build-up of training, preparations and maybe heading away for a weekend with friends or family.

“Having an amazing atmosphere, fellow competitors alongside you helping to push you, and then getting the cheer squad along the course and at the end when you cross that finish line, that is something you can’t get on your own and that is why we need events to be supported so they can continue.”

Online entries are open until 9 a.m. on Friday, November 3, with on-the-day entries accepted on Sunday, November 5.

All information can be found on the Event Promotions website.