Putting the fun into school fundraiser

Enjoy running? Or getting outside for a decent walk? Here’s a great opportunity to do so while enjoying rarely seen views of the Awatere Valley and, at the same time, helping Seddon School raise money.

Join the 450 expected entrants in this year’s Seddon Tussock Run for a day of athletic fun, on Sunday, August 25.

There’s something for everyone in this scenic fun-run event, says organiser Simon Barker. ‘‘You don’t have to be an experienced athlete. There’s an event for everyone at this year’s Tussock Run.’’

Entrants can choose between the 5km, 10.5km run and 15km courses. Whichever event you and your family opt for, you’re assured spectacular scenery along the way, Simon says.

‘‘All three events take the entrant through private land that is normally not accessible and with that comes some stunning views of the Awatere Valley and beyond. We can’t thank the landowners enough. Without their support this event simply wouldn’t happen.’’

The 5km Flyer is an enjoyable loop from Seddon School and back.

‘‘This is perfect for family groups, beginners or children while their parents are completing a longer event.’’ he says. ‘‘There are no big hills and extra marshalls allow school-aged children to complete this course without parental supervision, allowing parents to enter the longer events if they want to.’’

The quarter marathon (10.5 km) heads up Marama Rd south of Seddon before heading to the vineyard-covered river terraces.

‘‘The views along the Awatere River Valley are stunning as you wind your way back towards Seddon township. This is a great run/walk option and is an achievable distance for most people. Popular with keen youngsters, it is the perfect challenge for those looking to step it up a little from the 5km option or a fabulous choice for a not so leisurely Sunday afternoon stroll.

‘‘The 15km Star Hill Challenge is a different animal altogether. For serious runners or walkers, this course also heads along Marama Road for a couple of kilometres before heading up the mighty Star Hill. From the trig at the top of Star Hill, participants can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the Awatere Valley, Cape Campbell and Mt Tapuaeo-Uenuku; a whole new view of this beautiful part of Marlborough.

The course takes you across farmland and vineyard before joining the 10.5km course on the Awatere River terraces.

‘‘Wind your way through the vineyards on the banks of the Awatere River on your way back to Seddon School.’’

And it’s not just about running. The largest event in Seddon

Harvey Newman (71 shirt), forces the pace in last year’s Seddon School Tussock Run.