The Stadium to Surf run is getting a spruce-up with the hope it can become a fun and family event for all shapes, ages and sizes.
Sport Otago, Athletics Otago and the Otago Daily Times have all come together with the intention of giving the 10km event, which takes place on March 12, a boost as well as helping people with their own physical fitness.
The event is sponsored by The Athlete’s Foot.
Sport Otago business development and event manager Michael Smith said the event was one which could appeal to everyone from youngsters to those of a more senior age.
"We’re trying to appeal to everyone right across the spectrum. There are lots of different categories for anyone to have a go and test themselves," Smith said.
The event has drawn about 1200 spectators over the past couple of years, he said but Smith hoped to substantially bump that up.
"We know that the City to Surf event in Christchurch, which is well established, gets somewhere between 8000-9000. Obviously there is more people up there but if we can get something upwards of 3000 then that would be great.
"The weather is going to play a big part and let’s hope that it is a good day."
Smith was intending to run business house competitions and also inter-school competitions.
He was looking at engaging with tertiary students and perhaps have a contest between various student halls of residence.
The event starts at Forsyth Barr Stadium at 10am and weaves it way along Fryatt St through to Portsmouth Dr and then down through Bayfield Rd to Tahuna Rd.
It then reaches its finishing stages on Victoria Rd, back along Kettle Park to terminate at Hancock Park.
There are 5km and 3km runs for those who feel they are not quite up to the challenge of running 10km and the event can be walked. The shorter distance events take place around Hancock Park and are cheaper to enter.Smith said with so many options there was something for everyone.
The event had previously finished at St Clair but it was felt Hancock Park was a better option as there was more room and more parking.
At Hancock Park there would also be a family zone where children and adults could have an attempt at eight different sports.
Entries are available online at www.stadiumtosurf.co.nz.
