While the athletes were the stars of the show at Challenge Wanaka on Saturday, there were thousands of others who helped them cross the finish line.
From 6.45am when the first athletes hit the water to just after 10pm when the last one finished, more than 500 volunteers were on hand to help the athletes, both professional and amateur, make it across the finish line.
One of those volunteers was Morgan Passey (12), from Arrowtown, who handed out much needed wet sponges to runners at Eely Point Rd. It was the second time Morgan had volunteered at the event and she said she hoped one day to take part in the race herself.
"It’s cool to see all the athletes and be part of the event."
She was joined at the aid station by about 10 other young volunteers handing out an assortment of sugary treats as well as water and electrolytes.
On Aubrey Rd, unofficial volunteer Bernie Kennedy may have been the most popular man on the course. With the temperature reaching 27degC and very little shade, getting sprayed with his garden hose was a welcome relief for many athletes.
"They just absolutely love it, especially on a hot day like this.
"One guy even asked to give me a hug after I sprayed him."
It was the third year Mr Kennedy had "unofficially" volunteered.
"I don’t do much but I do my bit to help."
As well as the volunteers, thousands of supporters lined the roads around the Upper Clutha to clap, cheer and motivate the 1500 athletes.
One group of those supporters were the Campbell children, Brayden (10), Bree (9) and Libby (7) from Clinton, who had set up a spot near the Wanaka Airport to cheer on mum Bronwyn, who rode the cycle leg for the Waiwera Warriors team. The two girls had made signs with "Go Mum" and "Go Waiwera Warriors" written on them. Their Dad, Ken, said the family had followed Mrs Campbell around the cycle course to give her a boost and help her keep going.
"I’m sure she will appreciate it once she’s off the bike," he said.
While they waited for mum to pass, the three children cheered on other cyclists who passed by.
