The annual Wharf 2 Wharf returns this October, and locals looking to dust off their sneakers have a new reason to hit the ground running. The launch of the Aotea Run Club is a community-focused initiative designed to get the island moving regardless of fitness levels.
The Wharf 2 Wharf is returning to the Barrier sporting calendar just in time for its 20th anniversary, and after a six-year COVID-imposed hiatus. The event challenges participants to traverse the rugged and beautiful terrain between the island’s Fitzroy and Tryphena wharves. Whether you are tackling the marathon distance or the shorter walks, preparation has always been key to surviving the island’s notorious gradients. The new run club arrives just in time to serve as the perfect training springboard for those eyeing up the finish line this year.
“We are starting a running club/group here on Aotea,” Vance Hoskin shared. “If you’re thinking about doing the Wharf 2 Wharf this year, or you’d like to start running but need some motivation, this will be a great way to get started and meet some other people doing the same!”
The club is designed to be inclusive, removing the intimidation factor often associated with organized athletics. By using a time-based format rather than a distance-based one, the group ensures that no one is left behind on the road.
“Everyone and all paces are welcome. We’ll do 15min out and 15min back. So if you are running, walking, or both, you set your own pace and we’ll all finish at the same time,” Hoskin explained.
The weekly sessions are set to become a social fixture for the Tryphena end of the island. Participants are encouraged to meet on Saturday mornings at the Pa Beach bus shelter. The group will depart promptly at 9 AM and wrap up by 9:30 AM.
Community connection is a major component of the club’s mission, with the workout followed by an opportunity to socialize. As Hoskin put it, “Feel free to stick around afterwards for a beverage and/or snack at the Cafe too!”
The Aotea Run Club is scheduled to officially kick off next week on April 11th. Whether you are a seasoned Wharf 2 Wharf veteran or a complete beginner looking for a lifestyle change, the message from the organizers is simple: “See you there?”
