14,300 hit road for run round bays

Wellington’sRound the Bays celebrated its 40th birthday in force, with a record 14,300 competitors taking part.

Sport Wellington CEO Phil Gibbons said this marked the largest crowd since the organisation took over running the event in 1999.

‘‘The most we have had is 14,150. That was two years ago, and last year we were just shy of 14,000,’’ he said.

‘‘When you consider it’s in its 40th year, that’s pretty good.’’

Roughly 2000 were expected to take part in the Cigna Achilles Half Marathon, 3500 in the Bluebridge 10km, and a further 9000 in the 6.5km fun run.

The 70 Achilles athletes and guides served up many inspirational stories from amputees, sightimpaired athletes, and recovery stroke patients.

None embodied the spirit of the event more than young Toby Ireland, who, despite being blind and recently suffering a twisted ankle and suspected broken arm, was preparing for the 6.5km fun run.

Toby’s father Saul and guide Garth Bray had worried Toby would not make the race, as he only had a cast removed from his arm a week before, but the indomitable eight-year-old was unfazed.

Fellow racer Jaden Movold was no stranger to racing, with the Round the Bays event the third he would conquer in his hand-cycle. Movold was hoping to beat his personal best of 40 minutes for the 6.5km event, although he admitted he may become distracted by the entertainment on route.

The buggies were out in force as well, with roughly 600 bringing up the rear.

Just one of this number was mother-daughter duo Jo and Kaatia Kelekolio. Last time the pair ran Jo was five months’ pregnant. Now 18 months old, Kaatia was back. ‘‘She’s got a better view this time,’’ Jo said. Over 300 volunteers contributed to running the event.