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The popular Top of the Rock challenge on Sunday, March 17 is offering participants options for walking or running five or 10 kilometres, plus a free children’s bike event.
The long run/walk fundraiser is organised by the Kaiwaka Sports Association.
Now in its 23rd year (minus a couple of years due to covid), it was named Top of the Rock when the original route included the top of Baldrock mountain. However, access to the summit is no longer permitted after a change of ownership. These days, the route travels through some of Kaiwaka’s most scenic countryside around two lakes and across farmland to the summit of the highest hill on Anderson’s farm, off Baldrock Road.
Association president Alicia Reynolds says the event attracts participants of all ages, from pre-schoolers upwards, and there is a prize for the oldest person taking part.
“Run/walk participants don’t need to be concerned about fitness levels as there is no time limit on completing the events and we have marshals in vehicles following the tail-enders who will give tired folk a ride back,” she says.
There will also be a fun bike ride for children aged under 11, at 11.30am, which is free to enter. This is a short, flat course going around the sportsfields, school grounds and a neighbouring farm, and takes about 10 minutes to complete. Children will need a bike, helmet and closed-in footwear. All children who enter will go in the draw for a prize pack.
Reynolds says that this year’s challenge will be a more festive event, with free overnight camping at the venue, swimming at the pool, music, food and drink stalls.
There will also be lots of spot prizes.
“Top of the Rock is a true community event – as well as many locals entering, over 60 volunteers give their time as marshals, registration officials and organisers. It is a fun, healthy event that brings the community together, which also provides local groups fundraising opportunities.”
Funds raised this year will go towards replacing the gymnasium and fitness centre roofs and upgrading security. The small entry fee and business sponsorship, either monetary or product, for the event will go towards providing sporting and recreational opportunities for the Kaiwaka community.
The Kaiwaka Sports Association was established in 1977 and has 11 indoor and outdoor sports clubs or groups affiliated, and offers a range of free physical recreation activities on site.
Entry is $25 for adults, $10 for children aged under 15. Preschoolers free. Registrations will also be accepted on the day. To register, go to: www.kaiwakasport.co.nz
