Mud and thrills at kids’ extreme off-road race

Huge grins beamed from muddy faces after about 1500 children tackled an off-road run with attitude – the Junior Tough Guy and Gal Challenge.

Kids from 7 to 12 years old ran either a 1.5-kilometre or a 3km course on Friday at the Linton Military Camp near Palmerston North, including a generous helping of mud pits, water ponds and part of the base obstacle course.

The adult event, which includes 6km and 12km runs, takes place at the army base today, with a maximum field of 2000 participants.

The annual fundraiser is a series of ‘‘extreme off-road’’ running events throughout the North Island for adults and children to support the Kids Can medical research charity.

This was the first Tough run for Deakan Mullins, 9, from Dannevirke South School, but he loved every second.

‘‘We knew it was going to be really muddy, and it was was really tough, especially going through the pond, because our legs were frozen.

‘‘The best was going through the obstacle course, especially the tunnel – you just run for it. I’d definitely do it again.’’

Costumes dotted the field, and Awahou School decked its team of runners out with fairy wings and petal tutus.

‘‘All the boys dressed up as fairies, and wore wings too – it helps that the principal’s dressed up,’’ said parent helper Lordly Kaiuha.

‘‘They just love the whole concept of being out and about and being active, and giving it a go. The mud’s a bonus for them.’’

St Joseph’s School student Sam Bird, 12, said running through the army obstacles near the end was his favourite part.

‘‘There was a tunnel you had to go through and through a river, and more tunnels.

‘‘It was dark, but you could hear everyone breathing hard. It was really, really fun.’’