A major multisport challenge for Northland

The Northern Crossing will be a challenging, but achievable, one-day multisport event crossing Northland from the Hokianga to Kerikeri. The inaugural event is scheduled for 15 May 2010. 

Participants will run, kayak, cycle and run the 100km course from South Head, Hokianga to the Kerikeri Basin. The Northern Crossing will be supported by a Duathlon with run, cycle and run legs covering a similar course for those not yet ready for the full event.

A cross-country and beach run to start and a riverside run under Rainbow Falls to the finish are beautiful. The road cycle leg is undulating with challenging hills along a very historic and scenic rural route.

Organisers want to develop the Northern Crossing as a premier multisport event and believe the kayak leg is critical to that challenge. The 17km kayak leg from Opononi to Rawene up the remote Hokianga harbour includes dramatic views and is challenging even on an incoming tide.

The events for individuals and teams are already raising interest within the wider multisport community and with local endurance athletes.

The Northern Crossing is being developed by the Rotary Club of Kerikeri, with the support of Top Energy Limited and other sponsors, as a charity fundraiser. All funds raised will go to the Northland rescue helicopter and youth programs.

Martin Macpherson of the Northern Crossing Task Force said: ‘Early response to the website has been very encouraging. The event offers a physical challenge and will raise the profile of the mid-north. It also provides opportunities for community groups, businesses and hospitality providers.
With all the proceeds going to charity, we can’t see any losers.’

For further information (www.northerncrossing.co.nz)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9jZqcHsJs8