A strong field of top Otago runners will be giving the Otakou Golf Course quite the workout tomorrow.
The Edmond Cup cross-country is heading back down the Otago Peninsula for the second year running.
The Cup, first held in 1907, was previously held at Wingatui and Tahuna Park, but was shifted to the Otakou Golf Course last season, with runners making the most of the diverse terrain — from sand patches to tough hills — along the course.
Numbers are again strong for the historic race, with over 80 runners entered as of yesterday afternoon across
the various distances and events.
Among the leading contenders are Oli Chignell, who will headline a strong 8km open race, which features 21 competitors, including Brad Trebilcock, Ben Pigou, Claudia Sole and Mel Aitken.
Chignell (Hill City-University) has been in fine form already this season, having won the men’s 10km title at the Christchurch Marathon in April, finishing in 31min 49sec to head the 350-strong men’s field.
The 6km open race has also attracted good numbers, including leading hopefuls Brent Halley, Robert Homan and McKay Watson.
Junior races, especially in the under-12 and under-10 grades, have also seen a boost and show there is a bright future in the sport for some of Otago’s young runners.
The Edmond Cup will be run over 4km, 6km and 8km events for both men and women and the first four Athletics New Zealand registered competitive runners home from the same club will count towards the team’s race.
There is also a 6km walk event as well.
Non-competitive and community runners and walkers are also welcome. Entries officially close this evening.
The first race gets under way at 2pm tomorrow.
