Perhaps that is why nearly 160 runners, from as far away as Northern Ireland and Japan, competed in yesterday’s 42.2km inaugural FreshChoice Lake Dunstan Trail Marathon, from Clyde to the Cromwell Historic Precinct.
The event was won by 34-year-old Cromwell runner Ben Twyman, in a time of 2 hours, 56 minutes and 22 seconds.
Marathon race director Terry Davies was delighted with the turnout and the feedback from the competitors.
"Everyone is just raving about how stunning the course is.
"It’s probably one of the most scenic courses, with all the big rocky bluffs, the lake, the mountains — it’s a really good-quality trail.
"It’s a very unique marathon course. It’s quite different to a street marathon.
"There’s definitely no boredom on this run. It’s pretty spectacular."
He said there was a head wind for the runners, so Mr Twyman’s time was a bit slower than he expected.
"But it was still a very good time, given the conditions.
"He’s set a course record now and we’re looking forward to people trying to best it in future years."
Results — Men: Ben Twyman, 34, of Cromwell (2hr 56min 22.95sec), 1; James Millar, 26, of Christchurch (3hr 06min 32.40sec), 2; Jack Brownie, 28, of Christchurch (3hr 09min 42.36sec), 3.
Women: Moira Macdonald, 26, of Winton (3hr 25min 59.20sec) 1 (and sixth overall); Caris Teo, 36, of Whangarei (3hr 33min 31.50sec), 2; Sue Crowley, 54, of Rotorua (3hr 33min 31.50sec), 3.
