Friendly, demanding 'Trionman' event

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 475, 2 March 1993, Page 12

Friendly, demanding 'Trionman' event

The third Annual Night Life Security and Ruapehu Health and Fitness Centre Trionman held on 13 February gave all the competitors what they expected - a friendly but competitive event and a very demanding course. The course involved a 27km mountain bike ride to Pipiriki, paddle 21.5km to Matahiwi, 8.5km run up Matahiwi Track then cycle down Matahiwi Track on to the Parapara Road and on to Raetihi, again on mountain bikes. At each stage everyone started together encouraging everyone to finish. This year was exceptionally hot. "It certainly must have been in the mid 30 's up the Matahiwi Track," said Charles Mareikura. "The heat was incredible." Rob McCallum in his first triathlon as an individual, pipped Gavin Johnson for first place overall by 1 minute 23 seconds. McCallum's steady performance in all stages seemed effortless although there were signs of despair during the last stage of the cycle leg. Gavin Johnson's first placing in the first cycle leg, run and last cycle leg

was not enough to head off McCallum who, along with Charles Mareikura, had a good kayak leg, finishing 19 minutes in front of the next paddler. "One day 1*11 run all the way up the Matahiwi Track without walking," said third place veteran Charles Mareikura. "These multi-sport events are great; anyone can do them really." New-comer Kelly Gordon credited himself well for fourth place despite an early crash down Pipiriki Road. Also Colin Budge's unscheduled crash down the Matahiwi Track on his trustworthy mountain bike certainly didn't deter his enthusiasm to ride this last leg and come in second. His overall fifth place was only 1 minute 1 second behind Kelly Gordon. Rex Mareikura's stamina was obvious, in his consistent efforts over the years despite major injury and sickness set-backs.

Waiouru's Darran Morris should be well pleased with his efforts. His seventh placing overall edged out long time supporter and Trionman initiator Steve Gordon. "It's a race within a race," Steve said. "The atmosphere is relaxed and you race to your ability." "Steve's support and sporting knowledge has always been beneficial to all of us," said Charles Mareikura. Mike Callaghan entered the event simply to better his last year's time, and he did. His placing in front of Kevan McGregor epitomised the whole Trionman concept. 'Give it your best shot and a bit more.' Kevan McGregor had the misfortune in a previous Trionman, to have his wheel fall off at the finish line so, refusing to 'wheel-stand' at the close of the cycle leg, was cordially accepted by the many onlookers. Brendon Wilson still fares well every year. However his last cycle leg seemed jaded this year. Twelfth place went to Shane Harvey who was persuaded to enter regardless! The last minute cycle repairs just before the first cycle leg didn't deter his enthusiasm although continual locking of his brakes certainly didn't help. Last minute entrant Whetu Mareikura not only surprised everyone but also himself. Congratulations on a fine effort for thirteenth place. Captain of their canoe and in fourteenth place Tom Mareikura provided all the humour especially in the canoe section. Both he and Whetu were at loggerheads as to who should steer their canoe. Tom's continual organising skill, still enables everyone to enjoy themselves. In fifteenth place Shirley Pepene must be singled out for her gallant performance. Her gutsy effort was most in-

spiring. The other female contender Patsy Johnson in sixteenth place also saw the going energysapping. "Considering the only exercise previously was running out to get the mail," said her brother Charles, "both Shirley and Patsy did themselves proud." Twelve-year-old Sharleszane (Hubba) Mareikura had a good ride to Pipiriki with a thirteenth placing -in that stage. "My Dad said it's a bit early to kayak that far yet," said Hubba. Sixty-five year old Richard Akapita once again showed strength and endtirance in the canoe section. His fourth fastest time in this section still amazes all. The whole event although a very challenging ordeal, is built on participant encouragement and assisting one another tc go the extra bit.