Event Draws International Attention
Now in its 14th year, the Bay of Plenty Electricity Toi's Challenge continues to grow in popularity with over 700 competitors expected for this year's event. Race Manager, Gavin Shadbolt, says that the event attracts runners and walkers from all over New Zealand as well as from overseas.
"We have had runners from the UK, Holland and Germany to name just a few places. They go back home and tell their friends. As a result the event has grown in stature and is on the must do list for lots of sportspeople."
Last year's event was won by Londoner Tom Owens in a time of one hour and 20 minutes. It was his first ever attempt at Toi's Challenge which made his time all the more incredible. The win wasn't all that had him excited. "it.s an amazing track - I just wish I took my camera," he said.
The stunning scenery of Toi's Challenge - bush clad hills, ancient Pa sites, peeps of the Pacific Ocean, Ohope beach and the Mokorua Scenic Reserve - have the wholly volunteer run multi-terrain event on a sound footing. Mahia Bennett, account manager at Bay of Plenty Electricity, says that is one of the reasons they continue to support the event.
"We are into our tenth year of sponsorship now, and we have seen the event grow from strength to strength. Each year sees more entrants, and the fact that many of them are coming from overseas is testament to the popularity of Toi.s Challenge. As a locally based company we are proud to be associated with an event that is so well run and that lifts the profile of the Eastern Bay of Plenty," she says.
Gavin Shadbolt says the help they receive from large numbers of volunteers is another reason Toi's Challenge runs so well.
"Our sponsors, Bay of Plenty Electricity, 1XX and plastic BOX provide us with the needed financial support, but it's all the volunteers who make it happen. We can never quite believe all the help we receive. People willingly give up lots of their time and energy to ensure the success of Toi's Challenge. On top of that, Toi"s Challenge provides entrants with a sense of achievement and satisfaction - whether they are a walker or serious runner. To say you've done the Toi's is something you can be proud of. It will stay with you for the rest of your life," he says.
The Sport Bay of Plenty 'Walk 2 Health' challenge is a good way for those contemplating entering the Bay of Plenty Electricity Toi's Challenge to build their fitness levels. The challenge which started earlier this month runs for 10 weeks, ending on the day of Toi's Challenge, Sunday November 12. Gavin says that many of those who took up the 'Walk 2 Health' challenge last year took part in the Toi's Challenge Radio 1XX Fun Walk, and found that the lead up had them fighting fit for the event.
The Bay of Plenty Electricity Toi's Challenge can be entered by walkers, casual runners or those who are serious about putting in fast times. Entry forms are available from the Information Office, 1XX and Bay of Plenty Electricity. The major prize is valued at $1500.00 and there are also cash training awards and numerous spot prizes on offer.
