THERE was a great turnout of almost 30 people in the Whakatāne Harrier Club’s race from Kohi Point Trig to Kohi Point Mast and Ōtarawairere last Saturday.

 This is a challenging course, very undulating, including a climb of 129 steps in one group on the homeward leg.

The juniors raced from the Kohi Point Trig to the mast and return, a distance of 4 kilometres.

A stand-out group including Isla and Asher Spalding, Lilly Anderson and Emma Cameron took off at a very fast pace, with Lilly having to pause for a while after a bug flew into her eye.  

Isla continued her effortless speedy pace to finish first, followed by Asher, Emma Cameron and Lilly.  

Congratulations go to six-year-old Parker Shaw, who also completed the run.

The older runners had to complete the 6.4km run to Ōtarawairere and return.  

Josh Spalding chased the juniors to the mast and their pace made the remainder of the run somewhat tough for him.  

Notwithstanding that, he finished a good second behind the resurgent running of Dave Chambers.  

This year’s mountain running champion, Glenn Ellery, was third, followed by Wayne van Noordwyk.  

Kelly Shallow was in her element, winning the women’s race, followed by masters’ athletes Theresa Gee, Chrissy Weeks and Di Matthews.

In this week’s run, our club will be joined by harriers from the Tauranga and Te Puke clubs.

A big welcome to these runners and walkers and to anyone from the Eastern Bay who is keen.  

The venue is at 479 Herepuru Road, Matatā.  This run is well worthwhile for all – tremendous views. A race not to be missed.  Please arrive 130pm for 2pm start.