Perfect conditions for Trionman

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 11, Issue 526, 8 March 1994, Page 16

Perfect conditions for Trionman

The fourth annual Ruapehu Health and Fitness and Nitelife Security Trionman was held on 19 February in almost perfect conditions. This event involved mountain biking from Raetihi to Pipiriki (27km), paddling 21.5km to Matahiwi, running 8.5km up the Matahiwi Track and a final mountain bike ride from the top of Matahiwi Track to the Parapara Road and on to Raetihi (27km). This year's numbers were down slightly from last year but enthusiasm to do well was evident. It was a long and difficult course which attracted the usual athletes who love to pit

themselves against extreme odds. "Initially this trionman was devised for people in training for various sports disciplines" said Charles Mareikura. A few had never entered a triathlon before and their prime objective was to complete the gruelling event. Last year's runner-up, Gavin Johnson, made no mistake this year, taking out first place with an overall time of five hours 3 1 minutes and 38 seconds. His gallant and no-nonsense approach has always paid dividends. Coming in a close second five minutes behind Gavin was veteran Charles

Mareikura who continues to punish himself in such events. Kelly Gordon displayed great stamina throughout the taxing ordeal coming home in fine form for third place. Elder brother Steve' s fearlessness during the downhill stretches made valuable time and he completed the event in fourth place. Felix from Wellington came in as an unknown competitor, but soon showed his skill as a cyclist. However the kayak section made entertaining viewing and he came in fifth. Richard Lindsay also had problems on the kayak section but the rest of the disci-

plines were well accounted for. His sixth placing was well-earned. Youngster Hazley Gordon, although showing signs of fatigue, still has the heart to strive for bigger and better things to come. Signs of despair on the last cycle leg, were clearly showing for eighth placegetter Rex Mareikura. His relentless efforts got him over the finish-line eventually. Team winners ably led by paddler extraordinaire Tom Mareikura made short work in the 21km assisted in the canoe with Mike and Quentin Gordon. Elle Hamlin put in a fine performance on the first cycle

leg as did Brian Robinson on the run. Six-year-old Amco Mareikura showed courage and determination cycling the big hills on the first cycle leg.