Have You Done Huntly Yet? Huntly Half Counts Down

 That's what organisers of the famous Huntly Half Marathon are asking
this year as the race reaches its 28th birthday on Sunday 18th May.
Over 45,000 people have taken part in Huntly Half since its inaugural
outing in 1981 and Race Director Graham Dudfield is encouraging more
first-timers to give it a try, hoping for another record turnout in
2008.

As runners and walkers who have completed the race in the past will
know, the Huntly Half takes place on a gently rolling out-and-back
course – ideal for a first half-marathon or for setting a personal
best time. The double turnaround layout also offers an excellent
chance for all participants to keep an eye on the action at the front
of the field.

The race is strongly supported by both the Huntly and Hamilton
communities, giving the event a personal touch appreciated by
competitors. Running club Hamilton City Hawks have had a long term
involvement in Huntly Half, and it is one of the few remaining races
organised solely by a club rather than an event promoter.
Consequently, all benefits go back to participants and the community.

Over $30,000 worth of merit and spot prizes are presented on the day,
and all participants have a chance to win. Entries are coming in
already, with over 500 received online or in the post, and entrants
are encouraged to get in early to avoid a late fee and the race day
rush. There are also a limited number of quality Mizuno commemorative
t-shirts available for purchase.

When: Sunday 18th May
What: The 28th Retravision Huntly Half Marathon
Where: Lake Hakanoa, Huntly
Distances: 21.1 kilometres for the Half, and there's also an accompanying 10k.
Who for: Everybody - from social walkers to joggers to elite runners.
How to enter: Online at the Cool Running website -
http://www.coolrunning.co.nz/races/huntlyhalf/  - or pick up an entry
form from Huntly Retravision, Smiths Sport Shoes, and various sports
shops and gyms around Hamilton.