Emerson’s Dunedin Marathon has announced that five-time winner Mel Aitken is this year’s official ambassador for the event.
Aitken said it was such an honour to be asked to be the ambassador.
"Genuinely, I couldn’t say no to it."
The marathon route around Otago Harbour was scenic and had great access for spectators.
"So you know at different parts along the way you are going to see different people and that gives you a huge buzz when you are running and people are just cheering you on."
While Aitken has achieved many successes as a runner, she came to the sport relatively late.
"I hated running growing up, hated it with a vengeance.
"I rode horses growing up and I would shy away from athletics days and get Mum to write me notes and stay at home and ride my ponies."
"I got placed in there and I thought ‘oh, that is pretty cool, maybe that is something I can do’."
In 2012, she secured the top spot in the women’s category of the Dunedin Marathon, the first of five wins, including one last year.
Since then, Aitken has competed in many events, not only in New Zealand but also around the world.
Yet she enjoys the "real community feel" the Dunedin Marathon offers.
"People are in it for a good time and yep, there are always competitive people and I am one of them, but the majority of people are just doing it because they are challenging themselves.
"That is just really cool, I love it. You can feel that sort of energy."
The fact people worked hard to push themselves was impressive.
"I just want to give them a high five and go ‘good job’."
Race director Becs Adlam said she was thrilled to have Aitken as the ambassador for the 45th running of the Dunedin Marathon.
"This milestone event is particularly special for our community, and having Mel on board adds an extra layer of excitement."
She had an outstanding track record, having competed in the Dunedin Marathon seven times, winning five times and finishing second twice.
"Mel’s enthusiasm and commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle makes her the perfect representative for this landmark year," she said.
Early bird entries are open until midnight on June 1.
"Current numbers total 214, which is encouraging at this early stage, as we hope to see around 4000 participants this year."
