Beach series walks the talk

The Orewa Beach Series, sponsored by G J Gardener Homes, returns for a third season this summer, and event organisers are giving Hibiscus Coast locals no excuse not to take part with the announcement of a new event option.

A 5km beach walk has been added to the line-up, joining the run, stand up paddling and swimming options.

The beach walk will take place alongside the run event, with the course being one full length of Orewa Beach.

Event organiser Nick Carroll, says the idea for the new event came from observing the different fitness levels of the families who currently take part in the series.

“The new walk event allows participants of all fitness levels to be involved,” Nick says. “We have always encouraged participants who want to walk the 5km run event, however this season we want to recognise and reward the walking participants throughout the season with their own leader board and awards.”

He says a 5km run is a big ask for those coming back from injury or can be quite daunting for those just starting out on their fitness journey. “Having a walk event where they can track their time each week is the perfect way to get back into, or to kick start a fitness regime,” Nick says.

All events are professionally timed to allow participants to track their progress online throughout the season. Participants who take part in at least seven events will be eligible for end of season medals.
Participants who sign up for the walk event and find themselves progressing well will also be able to step up mid-season to the 5km run.

“To further encourage locals to come along and commit to getting active this summer, we have also introduced a Commitment Trophy for participants who complete all 14 events in the series,” Nick says.
Also new this season is the launch of the Active Kids’ giveaway, where the first 100 children (aged under 12) to sign up to the series receive a free six event pass.

The Orewa Beach Series kicks off on Sunday, November 4, and is a series of 14 events that take place on Thursday evenings.

Entries are open. To register, visit orewabeachseries.co.nz or simply turn up at Orewa Beach Reserve on a Thursday evening from 5pm.