Cape Egmont Half Marathon raises thousands for Taranaki Cancer Society

Cape Egmont Half Marathon raises thousands for Taranaki Cancer Society

Russell Wilson walked the Cape Egmont Half Marathon course on Sunday with a smile on his face.

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Russell Wilson walked the Cape Egmont Half Marathon course on Sunday with a smile on his face.

Delighted organizers of the Cape Egmont Half Marathon say this year’s event is on track to raise more than $10,000 for the Taranaki Cancer Society.

More than 220 participants took part in Sunday’s 21.8km course, which departed from Oxford Rd, Okato, and crossed country roads to arrive at the Cape Egmont Boat Club in Angler’s Ave, Warea.

“It was great,” said event organizer Nicky Smith. “We had beautiful weather and perfect conditions. All participants were happy.”

The event is organized in memory of Andrew Smith, Nicky’s close friend and running buddy, who died of a brain tumor on Christmas Eve 2016.

Sue Olsen and Geoff Old enjoyed walking the distance.

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Sue Olsen and Geoff Old enjoyed walking the distance.

While the final totals were still being calculated, Smith said they’ve raised at least $10.00 this year, and more than $40,000 since the first event was staged in 2018, including online during Covid’s lockdown.

“All the money being raised for the Taranaki Cancer Society is amazing,” Smith added.

“I’m just thrilled with the community’s support for this event.”

Dennis Jordan, left, and Marton Salisbury set the pace.

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Dennis Jordan, left, and Marton Salisbury set the pace.

The participants could walk or run, and there was also a team event for two people.

Each participant who completed the course received a medal, and all proceeds go to fund exercise programs for cancer survivors in Taranaki.

The running event was won by Zane Bolger, who completed the course in 1 hour, 20 minutes and 56 seconds.

The fastest woman was Christie Aish with a time of 1.27.50.

The winning walker was Dave Jones, who took 2 hours, 31 minutes and 46 seconds, while the winning woman was Paula Turner, with a time of 2.47.52.