21KM OF awesome mountain fun!
THE 21KM MOUNTAIN RUN/TRAMP
The half marathon course has gained a reputation as being hard but achievable.
2022 is the sixth year the event has been held, each year seeing different conditions on the summit, offering lots of variety for repeat competitors. With 360degree views along the summit, the climb is well and truly worth it!
The half marathon event has the option of entering the race as a Run or Tramp.
THE COURSE
This course never gets old!
The race starts in Coopers Creek, at the base of Mt Oxford. The beginning of the course sees you climbing steeply up the mountain. Approximately half of the climb is in the bush, the other half is out in the tussocks where you get a taste of the incredible views to come. Once you reach the summit you have awe-inspiring 360 degree views of the Southern Alps, the Canterbury Plains, and right across to the South Pacific Ocean. You will get to enjoy these right along the summit. As you descend the mountain you head through the ‘goblin forest’ that will make you feel like you are in a different world. The descent is a bit like the climb up the mountain - relentless but amazing!
Once you are off the mountain you then take an undulating track back towards the finish line. You will be going through creeks, enjoying some great technical terrain, and experiencing some more of the most stunning bush life New Zealand has to offer.
There is the possibility of snow on the summit, adding to the 'adventure' element of the race. You are welcome to carry poles with you.
Mt Oxford has to be experienced to be believed, sign up for this great challenge and experience the mountain and NZ nature at its best!