Abel Tasman Coastal Classic

Description:

The Abel Tasman Coastal Classic first began in 1994 and quickly became one of New Zealand’s most popular Trail Runs.

The reputation of the event, the location and its organisation continues to spread via word of mouth and the event continually sells out each year.

Back in 1994 the event started from Marahau and finished at Totaranui, – meaning a 40km approx distance. Soon after, the event was shortened slightly with a start at Awaroa instead. Top athletes are among the competitor tally over the years including Scott Molina, Erin Baker, Greg Fraine, Jonathan Wyatt, Tracy Clissold, Michelle Allison, Phil Costley and Rod Dixon (to name drop just a few). Nowadays we also have a strong international feel amidst competitors with runners from places such as Japan, America and Australia coming over to join in the fun.

Those runners lucky enough to have been a part of the first ever Abel Tasman Coastal Classic will most probably vividly recall the lunch they were given that day, as on the boat leg home amidst choppy seas, a fair few scotch eggs came back up to feed the local wildlife below (no wonder the marine reserve seems to be doing so well ….). The last group of competitors and race organisers were left waiting among rocks before having to ditch their boat trip and travel back to Riwaka (where the function was held) over the Takaka Hill via Bus. Elvis was even waiting to entertain guests that evening – but alas, he wasn’t the most popular, especially after our Striders flag seemed to mysteriously disappear and has never been seen since.