Clocktower race all speed and ‘a bit of silliness’

Even The Flash could not beat a fleet-footed student yesterday.

Fifty keen runners took part in the annual Clocktower Race, which has been a part of University of Otago’s O Week festivities since 1990.

The run, held by Hill City-University Athletics Club, challenges students in a 372m sprint around the university’s clocktower. The aim is to finish before the end of the noon chimes which last 53.5 seconds.

The winner of the men’s race, Luke Moffitt, 18, was among the students who successfully crossed the finish line before the bells stopped.

Mr Moffitt finished second in the race last.

"I was so stoked to finally take the win. I had a great time and an even better result."

First-time competitor Zara Geddes, 18, was the fastest female.

"It was a chaotic race. Lots of people were falling over in front of me," Miss Geddes said.

Event organiser John Gerber also took part. He got into the spirit of things by dressing up as DC Comics character The Flash.

"I thought it would be a funny way to support all of the runners."

Mr Gerber, a previous winner, was pleased with the numbers.

"It was a much bigger turnout than last year. It was cool to see so many people getting involved and supporting."

The fastest runners were not the only winners.

Spot prizes were also awarded to the best-dressed and the best staff members taking part.

University events co-ordinator Jane Reynolds and international student exchange adviser Anna Hoek-Sims took the prize for best-dressed staff.

Their outfits — tutus and animal masks — were chosen by the pair as they wanted to " inject a bit of silliness into the event" and "seize the day".

By Olivia Judd