Numbers might be lower than previous years, but Toi’s Challenge organiser Will Doney is confident of a good turnout for Sunday’s event.

The annual 18-kilometre run or walk usually attracts hundreds of entries from locals and out-of-towners.

Although Eastern Bay people have been slow to commit this year, Doney is confident they will turn up on the day.

This year there is an added incentive for the runners with prize money up for grabs.

“If someone can break the record on the new circuit, they will take home some money,” Doney said.

“We wanted a way to try and attract new faces but also some high-level runners and we feel that is the best way to do that.”

He hopes to also see lots of people give the event a go, and plenty of family and friends down supporting them at the finish line.

“It’s a great day out that gets well supported and we’re confident the same thing will happen this year.”

Doney, who has been running the race for 34 years and organising it for 19, has heard of plenty of people putting in many hours of training in hope of a good result. Others are planning to wing it on the day.

Those not up for the full 18km can opt for the 6km fun run or walk through The Bird Walk and down Mokorua Gorge.

The race starts at 8am from Rex Morpeth Park.