In synch: Round The Bays competition a real stretch
Wellington’s Round The Bays celebrated its 40th birthday in force, with a record 14,300 competitors taking part yesterday.
Sport Wellington chief executive officer 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 explained. ‘‘When you consider it’s in its 40th year, that’s pretty good.’’
Roughly 2000 people were expected to take part in the Cigna Achilles Half Marathon, 3500 in the Bluebridge 10km event, and a further 9000 in the 6.5km fun run.
The 70 Achilles athletes and guides served up many inspirational stories from amputees, sight-impaired 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.
His father Saul and guide Garth Bray had worried Toby would not make the race, because he only had a cast removed from his arm a week before, but the indomitable 8-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.
Jesse Apiti was involved in a recent building accident that resulted in him becoming a paraplegic. Only three months later and he was competing alongside Pai Candy, a friend he made in rehab. ‘‘I’m just living life and loving it.’’
Baby 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 they entered, Jo was five months’ pregnant. Now Kaatia is 18 months old. ‘‘She’s got a better view this time.’’
The event was marred only by three runners requiring medical attention. Wellington Free Ambulance spokeswoman Diane Livingston said one required treatment for dehydration, and two were taken to hospital with serious cardiac issues.
Livingston could not offer any further specifics, but said both patients were conscious during their journey.
Back in its infancy participation in the Round The Bays sat at 3000, and it has been on the rise ever since.
‘‘There’s been a far wider engagement with the Wellington region. In the past, we have probably focused on the city and the community that sits inside,’’ Gibbons said.
The number of work groups also leapt this year, he added. ‘‘They vary in size from 5 to 10 people, up to 100 people. It’s just lots of businesses, government departments. People see it as a great wellness opportunity.’’ See a full list of race results in today’s liftout.