Why The Arrowsmith is my favourite trail race.

Jen Halliday gives us the low down on why the Arrowsmith is one of her trail runs in New Zealand.

‘Arrowsmith Thee Race’, is one of my favorite races in the calendar every year – there is something for all, with 11km, 17km and 42km running races, 42km MTB race and also the duathlon  (42km MTB + 11km run).

Arrowsmith Thee Race is set in the picturesque Mt Arrowsmith Station by Lake Heron.

There is a basic campground about 5 mins from the start line, so I’d recommend heading down on the Friday and setting up camp the night before, saving a 2hr early morning drive from Christchurch.  There is also room to stay in the woolshed for the night (though it smells fairly ‘farm-like’ in there!)

I have done the Marathon distance and the 17km and they are both awesome. The MTB race follows the same route as the marathon.  After the starting whistle, there is a nice easy run following the road by the lake, giving you time for a good warm up before you hit the hill! After a couple of kms, it’s time to head up. The track snakes its way up, a good lung buster, and a good chance to work on the hiking part of trail running!. When you think you are at the top, the 17kms head left, but the marathoners are so lucky and get to keep climbing!  Disclaimer: there is rumour of a gorgeous glacier that can be seen on the marathon race, but both times I’ve done it, it’s been cloudy, so I cannot confirm ha! 

So the 17kms, head across on a rather technical course back around and the onto farm paddocks back to the woolshed. The marathon heads up to the saddle, then a fun but technical downhill to the riverbed. You then make your way through the valley, crossing the river, then up another saddle to the paddocks and back to the woolshed.  (a fairly long feeling 5km in the paddocks at the end, then a fun downhill to run over the finish line). ALL competitors are rewarded with the tastiest steak sandwich to finish, the best way to recover from the run!

This race has it all, supporting a local event, great atmosphere,  great steak sandwich, the adventure of being on private land, exploring tracks not usually available, outstanding views! The start/finish line has a great chilled low key vibe, so bring the whole family and a picnic blanket and prepare for a fantastic day!

You can enter here via MultiSports Events.

Thanks to Arrowsmith Station for the location for a great event and the photos from their website.

Jen Halliday is a FurtherFaster Athlete and trail lover. You will find her often running, towards cake!