The Whakatāne Bush Half Marathon has returned for its sophomore year after a successful debut in 2024.

Tomorrow, runners and walkers will take off from Ohope Christian Fellowship at 9am to complete a 5-kilometre, 10km or half marathon challenge through the bush.

Held by the team behind the popular Toi’s Challenge, the Whakatāne Athletic and Harrier Club were thrilled at the success of last year’s trial mid-winter event.

Race director William Doney said they were expecting 50 people to take on the challenge last year and were pleasantly surprised at the 120 who turned out.
This year, almost 200 people have already signed up, with more expected on the day.

Runners and walkers can register online via the Whakatāne Bush Half Marathon Facebook page or enter on the day.

Entry on the day is open from 6.30am until 7.30am and check in will be from 7.45am until 8.30am. The half marathon will go ahead rain or shine, Participants will need to bring their own cup or water bottle, and water stops will be active along the course.

Doney said all proceeds from the race would go towards local children’s athletics.
Many families have entered the 5km, and some mums will be pushing prams along the track.

All participants who complete the half marathon, 10km or 5km will receive a medal designed and crafted by William Doney Jr, and the first over the line of each of the three courses will be awarded a trophy.

First Credit Union, One Double X and Hamerton’s Lawyers are sponsoring the event, and Ngāti Awa have given participants their blessing to run the track.
Whakatāne District Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council are also supportingthe event.

For further information or updates, check out the Whakatāne Bush Half Marathon or One Double X Facebook pages.