Alternate route for Ironmen

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 406, 1 October 1991, Page 1

Alternate route for Ironmen

"The Drink Safe "Over The Top" Ironman race was held on Saturday in adverse weather conditions, with the mountain under cloud. The event was run on the alternative route which was considered to be more extreme than the 'over the top' course, according to competitors "The last cycling leg was a challenge, especially with the 28km run around the mountain ending up to be more of a 40km run". The race started at 8 am Saturday morning at Lake Moawhango, which is on Waiouru Army land. After a 2km paddle the competitors took to their bikes for the 90km cycle ride to the Chateau. Jon Hume took any early lead from the exit of the lake. Following about 20mins behind was Terence William Newlands, who, through a series of mishaps with tyres, pulled out at the Rangipo intersection of the Desert Road and State Highway 47. This put Ian Huddleston of Turangi in 2nd place at the end of the cycling, following half an hour later was Arne Ericson then came John Paul Lilburne.

The around the mountain' track run took nearly four hours for the first competitor to finish, Jon Hume was first out followed over an hour later by Arne Ericson, who passed Ian Huddleston on the track. Two hours later came Ian Huddleston then John Paul Lilburne. Only two of the competitors finished the complete course with Jon Hume of Mt Maunganui coming in with 8 hours 36 and Arne Ericson of Hastings 10 hrs 12 Also held over the weekend was the 8km Ohakune Road Run. This was a 31.56 min venture with Wellingtonian Paul Blessington setting the Winter Games record. "I'll be baek next year to defend my title" he said. First lady home, who was 5th overall was Marlene Woods, from the Chateau with a time of 36.26.44. Also competing were three under 16's who did a great run and finished with supporting dad just behind. All competitors received a warm welcome at the finish line plus yoghurt, compliments of the Winter Games sponsors Ski Yoghurt.