SPORT
MARINA
Magic
From humble beginnings the Marina2Marina event has
grown in both size and popularity, attracting runners
from across both Marlborough and further afield.
I
t started seven years ago - a
community run to raise money
for Waikawa Bay School.
With picturesque views across the Sounds,
this course is simply breathtaking. For
me though, it’s the Snout walkway which
draws me back time after time.
Living in Auckland, my go-to training run
when staying with my parents in Waikawa
has always been the Snout walkway.
It’s a superb mix of hills, trails, views and
bush - always something to look forward
to. So, when the Marina2Marina event with
the Snout Run came up it was the perfect
excuse to spend a weekend in Picton.
46
August 2019
The Snout Run itself was an easy start with
a decent climb not far in. This spreads the
field a little so it’s a good idea to get to
that hill as soon as possible. After that, lots
of big ups and downs and amazing views
across the Sounds - like nowhere else in
the world.
This year’s event will see some changes
with a new feature. Part of The Link
Pathway between Anakiwa and Picton
included for the first time.
The Link Pathway project began in 2005;
a vison to build stronger links between
inner Marlborough Sounds communities.
As initial pathways were created, the
STORY: BEN ALTOFT
SUPPLIED
idea grew. Hard-work and tenacity saw
other pathways gradually take shape. The
section between Anakiwa and Picton
was completed in late 2018. It’s set to be
a great addition to an already wonderful
experience.
Competitors have the option of
enjoying an early morning cruise with
Beachcomber Cruises from London Quay,
Picton to the start line at Anakiwa. They
then face the challenge of running 24km
(just over a half marathon) through native
bush, around the stunning bays of the
Queen Charlotte Sounds, and down to the
finish line at London Quay, Picton.
The Link 24km is not for the faint
hearted, and therefore is only open to the
experienced runner. The daunting task of
running over Wedge Point comes at the
end of the run, and competitors will need
to pace themselves.