Crush the Cargill Events, Friday 12 Dec – Sunday 14 Dec, 2025

Bethunes Gully, Dunedin

Visit Event Website >> Crush the Cargill Website

Visit their Facebook Group >> Crush the Cargill Facebook Group

All proceeds go to the Valley Project 

Leith athletes and their families and pets and supporters were there in their hordes participating in this now iconic event on the trail running calender

Rocky, the winner of the 100 Miler, (164.09 km 10,956 m 31h 12m) writes that “laps 1-12 were amazing. I have never felt so good after 100km before and then my condition got progressively worse each lap thereafter. It was a great event, and I always love to see so many friends and people giving it a go!” Yes, and there were many. I may have missed your participation (below). Please let me know. Your story matters.

Lydia, first female in the 24 Hrs (15 laps 127.89 km 8,736 m 21h 31m) contemplates: “Things went well with my plan A. 50min up and 30min down held until about midnight. From then we had incredibly thick fog and, my already sub-par eyesight, was not good. I slowed dramatically so as to not fall for the next three laps. Once the fog cleared my body was too sticky in a much slower pace to pick back up. Nevertheless, stoked to come home with 15 laps and 1hour to spare. Second overall to Theo (17 Laps 1st M 149.53 km 9,577 m 23h 49m), Absolutely blown away by Theo’s win and Chris Jervis’ effort over the 10 laps (82.86 km 5,651 m 10h 52m) he had time for was incredible. Rocky taking out the Miler was so cool and Storm (Sinclair) being the first female to finish the Miler was epic.”

Leith Results

Friday, December 12th 10pm Crush the Cargill 100 Miler

First was Rocky Allan 164.09 km 10,956 m 31h 12m 1st M  (a new record)

Saturday/Sunday, Dec 13th/14th 10am Crush the Cargill 24hr Challenge

First was Theo Atkinson 17 Laps 1st M 149.53 km 9,577 m 23h 49m

First Female was Lydia Pattillo 15 laps 1st F 127.89 km 8,736 m 21h 31m

Chris Jervis 10 laps 82.86 km 5,651 m 10h 52m

Chris Holmes 8 laps in 13 hrs

Jamie Sinclair 6 laps 54.40 km 3,484 m 8h 22m

Emily Harris 6 laps: 1,2 & 5 with Rich Williamson 51.83 km 3,364 m 10h 3m

Wayne Stephenson “it crushed me” 53.47 km 3,439 m 9h 5m

Sue Hendry 41.74 km 2,875 m 6h 45m

Stephanie Wilson #1 lap with mum #2 lap with Nui 17.23 km 1,109 m 2h 47m

Stephanie Wilson and Mica Goldsmith-Lonie Lap 3 with Mica Goldsmith and his Crash the Cargill beer 8.44 km 588 m 1h 4m + Laps 4, 5 and 6 with a mixture of Ben Pigou, Fraser Bailey and @claudia! Second equal for Nui (dog) again this year, maybe next year’s her year for the top dog spot!! 25.66 km 1,702 m 3h 9m

Claudia Sole 4 laps 34.31 km 2,358 m 4h 35m

Ben Pigou 3 laps with Fraser Bailey and Stephanie Wilson 25.54 km 1,694 m 3h 4m

Isaac Tripp Lap 1, fast descent. 8.62 km 577 m 1h 3m + Laps 2, 3, 4 “One with rocks and two with Teo” 26.38 km 1,677 m 4h 17m

Adam Clarke 2 laps with Flo Lenehan & Maggie 17.63 km 1,132 m 2h 38m

Calan McDermott +1 lap 22.25 km 1,298 m 3h 51m

Alice Cuthbert A half + a whole + a quarter Cargill lap, support of Mum/my pick for the GOAT athlete 13.38 km 828 m 1h 51m

Steve Stewart 1 lap 8.64 km 582 m 1h 38m

Corey Lewis 1 lap 9.25 km 592 m 1h 0m

Steve Tripp 1 lap 9.69 km 708 m 3h 40m

Chris Clark + Ben & Thomas 1x 8.59 km 567 m 1h 13m + Lap 2 with Thomas 8.48 km 573 m 1h 17m

Fraser Bailey Roughly 2.8 laps. Good push with Stephanie Wilson and Ben Pigou 24.79 km 1,637 m 2h 59m

 

 

Valley Ultra, Saturday 13 December 2025

From Castle Hill basin through the stunning Craigieburn Valley

Visit Event Website >> Valley Ultra

Congratulations to the Leith athletes who competed in this event.

The Piglet 24km (94 finishers, 94 F)

55 ANGELA BISHOP (#11) 02:55:46 Senior (18-39) (8) F (8)

The Whole Hog 54km (82 Finishers, 14 F)

57 ISAAC TRANTER-ENTWISTLE 08:47:03 Senior (18-39) (27) M (48)

76 CIARA DUNLEAVY (#29) 10:18:59 Senior (18-39) (9) F (12)

 

The Leith Harriers Trail Running Mini Series, Race 2,  6.30pm Wednesday 10 December 2025

Signal Hill, Logan Park, Dunedin

For Results >> Current Results up to Race 2 Leith Trail Running Series

Visit the Event Facebook Page “Don’t forget your Siggys” >> Race Two Leith Trail Running Series 2025

 

 

Kepler Challenge and Luxmore Grunt, Saturday 6 December 2025

Te Anau, New Zealand

Visit the Event Website >> Kepler Challenge

Live Results >> Kepler Challenge & Luxmore Grunt Live Results

Leith had many athletes taking part in the two events

Kepler Challenge

25 JULIA CHAMBERLAIN (#66) 06:17:02 NZL | O (3) F (3)
31 GLEN CHISHOLM (#71) 06:23:39 NZL | 40 (3) M (27)
50 LAURA BUNGARD (#50) 06:46:32 NZL | O (7) F (7)
60 ISAAC TRIPP (#441) 06:58:01 NZL | O (35) M (50)
64 HAMISH VODANE (#454) 07:01:02 NZL | O (39) M (54)
101 ANNA O’BYRNE (#316) 07:26:27 NZL | 40 (6) F (21)
165 LEE FLOWERS (#131) 08:01:59 NZL | 50 (17) M (127)
190 MARK O’ NEILL (#315) 08:17:09 NZL | 40 (44) M (144)
217 STEVE TRIPP (#440) 08:35:45 NZL | 60 (2) M (161)
218 ANDREW TRIPP (#439) 08:35:46 NZL | 50 (23) M (162)
275 ALICE BARACH (#12) 09:04:40 NZL | 40 (29) F (78)
293 CHRISTOPHER HOLMES 09:17:32 NZL | 50 (31) M (212)
395 DAVE MCLEAN (#279) 10:23:10 NZL | 60 (14) M (273)
420 DONNA TUMARU (#443) 10:54:57 NZL | 50 (17) F (136)

Luxmore Grunt

12 NATHAN SHANKS (#864) 02:18:10 NZL | O (11) M (12)
128 ROBYN O’NEILL (#845) 03:44:00 NZL | 40 (26) F (66)

 

The Leith Harriers Trail Running Mini Series, Race 1,  6.30pm Monday 17 November 2025

Wakari Creek / Redwoods MTB Trails, Wakari Road, Dunedin

For Results >> Current Results up to Race 1 Leith Trail Running Series

Visit the Event Facebook Page >> Race One Leith Trail Running Series 2025

 

FAARC: Running Tough Ridges, Sat 15 November 2025

Start at Evansdale Glen, finish at ARC (FAARC) Brewery

Visit Event Website for details about the event >> FAARC Running Tough Ridges

Rocky Allan took the win 39.76 km 2,144 m 7h 15m

Andy Smith 41.19 km Elev Gain 2,977 m Time 7h 36m

Isaac Tripp: 51.21 km 3,227 m 9h 52m

Theo Atkinson Finished at ARC brewery, Got back almost 2 hrs late, did not think it would take that long! 50.15 km 3,272 m 8h 26m

Chris Taylor 32.59 km 1,707 m 4h 54m

Sebastian Potgieter 19.54 km 1,103 m 4h 1m

Steve Tripp 23.71 km 1,501 m 4h 2m

Dave McLean ran Honeycomb, Walkers, Rosella, Rocky, Yellow and Rongami Ridges. It took a lot longer than expected on Rocky. It needs a trim! 1700m vert, 32km, 8hr 30. Steve gave me an honourable disqualification. Wasn’t that nice!

 

Kāpiti Half, Sunday 9 November 2025

Paraparaumu, Kāpiti Coast

Visit Event Website >> Kāpiti Half – Run the Coast

For direct link to results >> Kāpiti Half Results

Congratulations to Leith’s Nina Batucan who finished 54th (of 773) overall and 5th Female overall in an excellent time of 1:35:15 (4:28 min/km) in the Half Marathon. She was running in the Female 30-39 grade.

Contratulations also to Bryan Staunton who ran the 10km. He was 12th (of 656) overall in 43:43 (M) 30-39yrs @ 4:06 min/km

 

Coastal Classic – Run / Walk Events, Sunday 2 November 2025

Taieri Mouth

Visit Event Website >> Coastal Classic – Run / Walk Events

Loads of Leith athletes took part. See the Leith and friends results further below:

Leith Results and Report

Event 21km

Men

Overall, Name, Time, SM
1 Simon Cromarty 1:22:16 1
2 Nathan Shanks 1:26:30 2
4 Ben Pigou 1:32:16 3
6 Sam Leather 1:33:07 4
9 Bryan Staunton 1:39:36 6
11 Armin Burgmeier 1:41:05 7

Vet M

Overall, Name, Time, Vet M
3 Chris Bisley 1:31:02 1
5 Geoff Williamson 1:32:32 2
16 Simon Perry 1:45:13 4
34 Adam Clarke 1:57:55 10

Women

Overall, Name, Time, Vet W
13 Julia Chamberlain 1:42:46 1
26 Elisa Maierl 1:53:18 3
31 Florence Lenehan 1:56:13 4

MM

Overall, Name, Time, MM
10 Simon Leaning 1:40:21 1
25 Wayne Porteous 1:53:17 3 (for Dunedin Points)
37 Croydon Paton 1:58:58 4 (for Dunedin Points)
38 Christopher Holmes 1:58:59 5
45 Ian Morison 2:02:38 7

MW

Overall, Name, Time, MW
41 Sue Hendry 1:59:43 1
63 Kate Hobsley 2:26:43 5
72 Donna Tumaru 2:34:51 7

Event 12km

JM

Overall, Name, Time, JM
6 Archie McKinlay 58:59 2

SM

Overall, Name, Time, SM
2 Lars Winter  51:33 1
3 Corey Lewis  55:07 2
5 Casey Pearce  57:58 4

Run – 12Km

Masters Male

Overall, Name, Time, MM
8 Luke McKinlay  1:03:39 2

Masters Female

Overall, Name, Time, MF
18 Siobhan McKinlay  1:14:24 1

Legends Male

Overall, Name, Time, LM

32 Richard Hendry  1:20:01 2
78 Stephen Springthorpe  1:49:11 4

Legends Female

Overall, Name, Time, LF
80 Jocelyn Springthorpe  1:53:35 2

U14 Beach Race:

Under 14 Male

Overall, Name, Time, U14M
1 James Dickson  23:03 1

5Km Family Walk/Run

Recreational

Female

Overall, Name, Time, Female
30 Glenda Norris 30 40:47 18
41 Helen Dent  53:42 24
56 Harriett Liddell  56:53 34
57 Alice Cuthbert  56:54 35

Male

Overall, Name, Time, Male
1 Edwin Dent  23:15 1
5= Nate Dent 32:14 4=
5= Matt Dent  32:14 4=

5Km Family Walk/Run

Recreational Male

Overall, Name, Time, Male

51= Edward Dickson  56:47 20
55 Archer Hendry  56:51 22
63 Oscar Dickson  57:41 24
64 Riordon Dickson  57:44 25

MTB 15km Experience

Recreational Male

Overall, Name, Time, Male
4 Callum Scorringe  47:49 4
5 Hayden Scorringe  47:50 5

MTB – Skyline – 45Km

Open Male

Overall, Name, Time, Male
24 David Liddell  2:09:09 13
46 Sam Cuthbert  2:31:11 18

 

The 54th Annual Kelly’s Canter, 2pm Sunday 19 October 2025 

Collin’s Yard, Palmerston

For full results >> Trail Results 2025

Congratulations to Stephanie Wilson for being the first female to finish. She finished in an excellent time of 27:44 and was seventh overall out of the field of 76 participants.  Jared Brensell was Leith’s top finisher in 5th place, with an excellent time of 27:13 and Corey Lewis was the second Leith runner to finish also with an excellent 6th place finish in 27:35. So pretty much they ran together most of the way in the hectic dash up and down the hill.

Leith Results

5 Jared Brenssell MO 27:13 3rd MO

6 Corey Lewis MO 27:35 4th MO

7 Stephanie Wilson FO 27:44 1st F

26 Ben Clark M15 38:24 3rd M15

46 Thomas Clark M10 45:56 5th M10

47 Chris Clark MM 45:57 5th MM

63 Emma Clark MW 59:26 3rd MW

68 Ian Morison MM 1:04:53 7th MM

 

Orokonui Challenge, Sunday 19 October 2025

Orokonui Ecosanctuary, 600 Blueskin Road

Visit Event Website >> Orokonui Challenge

For Results >> Orokonui Challenge Results

Description of Event

Test yourself over our tough 18.7km course as you run over volcanoes, along beautiful coast, and through the protected Orokonui nature reserve. The course starts near the Visitor centre carpark then runs along part of the Orokonui fence line, over the side of Mōpanui, along the coast from Pūrākaunui to Doctors Point, past the Orokonui inlet, and into the sanctuary to finish with a climb through the sanctuary’s protected forest. The total course length is 18.7km and contains around 600m of elevation change

Leith Report and Results

Leith had many taking part in this event and we will have a report and photos here soon

Leith Results

Time, Bib, Name, Age, Category, Club, Time, Pace

1 102 Andrew Wilson 39 M Leith 1:30:39 4:57

2 155 Margie Campbell 40 F Leith 1:34:04 5:08 1st F

3 144 Jess McNeilly 18 F Leith 1:35:06 5:12 2nd F

4 106 Armin Burgmeier 38 M Leith 1:35:17 5:12

5 177 Simon Leaning 52 M Leith 1:35:32 5:13

8 119 Claudia Cooke 26 F Leith 1:41:04 5:31 3rd F

9 170 Ryan Whitburn 31 M Leith 1:41:29 5:33

14 118 Claudia Sole 28 F Leith 1:44:28 5:42 5th F

15 139 Izzy Macdonald 27 F 1:45:30 5:46 6th F

17 128 Florence Lenehan 28 F 1:47:53 5:54 7th F

32 165 Rachel Olsen 38 F 1:55:20 6:18 8th F

50 156 Mark Sanders 60 M Leith 2:08:40 7:02

54 150 Kate Hobsley 62 F Leith 2:11:17 7:10 21st F

56 172 Sarah Caulton 34 F Leith 2:14:38 7:21 22nd F

57 169 Robyn O’Neill 47 F Leith 2:14:48 7:22 23rd F

 

RAKIURA CHALLENGE TRAIL RUN, Saturday 4 October 2025

Rakiura Track, Stewart Island

Visit Event Website for details and results >> RAKIURA CHALLENGE TRAIL RUN

Leith and friends took part in this awesome and popular event. Andrew Wilson, Croydon Paton, Manya Sabherwal, Siobhan McKinlay, Julia Eyles were among those who took part. Read their stories below:

Leith and Friends Results

Open  (Leith and Friends Highlighted)

1 Tom Francis Whanganui 2:43:34
2 Cameron Holding Qt 2:50:26
3 Richard Ford Manapouri 2:55:41
9 Andrew Wilson Leith/Dun 3:14:04 [29.67 km, 1,166 m]
48 Croydon Paton Dun 3:55:36 2nd MM50-59
104 Manya Sabherwal Leith/Dun 4:25:45 20th F
114 Siobhan McKinlay Leith/Dun 4:34 5th MW50-59 [30.77 km, Elev Gain 1,239 m]
214 Julia Eyles Dunedin 5:27:47 58thF

Comments from the Leith and friends who took part

Siobhan experienced Rakiura’s race for the first time:

“We’re home again after a lovely few days on Rakiura (Island), including my Mum’s 80th birthday celebration and my first attempt at the Rakiura Challenge. After a stormy start to the week and a bumpy crossing of Foveaux Strait a few days earlier, the day prior to the race was perfect, blue skies, beach cricket and even a quick dip in the sea. At the Friday pre-race briefing they promised lots of mud and advised the best way is straight through the middle – nothing to be gained from trying to go around it. This reminded me of our various very muddy tramps on Rakiura, where Luke and I have generally tried to avoid the mud at least a bit, while our children took delight in wading right in. The weather held, and the threatened rain didn’t come till they were packing away the timing gear at the end of the day. At 8 am while we waited to start in the cold at Halfmoon Bay, I was feeling very nervous. It was great to see some friendly Dunedin faces – Croydon, Andrew & Manya, Christine Maierl & Julia Eyles. In my mind were: Goal number 1 – reaching the finish line, goal number 2 – not falling over, goal number 3 – embracing the mud/my inner child. I knew I would take at least 4 hours, hoped to be under 5 and didn’t really know where in that mix I would be. The course is stunningly beautiful and for most of the race I just felt so grateful to be there, for my body to be able to move, for the amazing encouragement of the marshals dotted around the track (including Aly C’s Mum in a purple tutu!), for the sections slipping through mud with fellow runners and the odd quiet moments running through the bush on my own listening to the birds. After the first stretch of coast, including a gorgeous run along the length of Māori Beach, we turned inland and it was hard to get a rhythm going between sections of twisty gnarly roots, deep mud and awkwardly spaced stairs, but I focused on keeping moving forward and running everything that was runnable. The track was hillier than I expected, coming in on my Strava at 1239m elevation gain. By the time we popped out on the coast again my legs were tired, and my muddy shoes felt pretty heavy, and then the trail became quite rocky. I (who managed to fall over running on the footpath at LHF!) managed to stay upright and when a marshal told us only one more km of bush and 2 of road, I found enough oomph to dig it in to the finish line in front of the South Seas Hotel, coming in at 4 hours 34 mins (5th in age group). I was happy with my run, very happy to see the finish line and Luke, Frankie & Archie along with my Mum & Dad, my 2 brothers, sister-in-law and niece & nephew – what a support crew! The rest of the day was Stewart Island perfect – a wade in the sea, chips in the pub, seeing Croydon and Christine both make the podium at the prizegiving while we indulged in the famous post-race meal of salmon & blue cod and finally, after dark, a close encounter with a kiwi at Traill Park.

Andrew Wilson writes: “Manya & I headed down to beautiful Stewart Island for the third year in a row. There was some great mud as always (not as much as last year). Manya lost a shoe in some deep mud for a while managing to locate it to complete her race! A couple of competitors reported spotting a kiwi, but we weren’t so lucky. Always next year. I highly recommend the event to anyone!”

Croydon: “Tough wee run. Lots of little climbs, rooty and some mud. Hard to get into a good rhythm. Great race organization. Fantastic race dinners Friday and Saturday catered by the SIT cookery students. Great community support and awesome volunteers. Saw kiwi on the rugby paddock on Saturday night. Rakiura never fails to delight. Magic place. And there wasn’t any rain.”

 

World Mountain & Trail Running Championships, 25-28 September 2025

CanfrancPirineos, Spain

Visit Event Website >> World Mountain & Trail Running Championships

LIVE RESULTS

Spain hosted the best mountain and trail runners in the world in this World Championship event. Included Championship events over various distances. A huge congratulations to Laura Bungard, Leith Trail Running Captain, Julia Chamberlain and Jess McNeilly who did extremely well in tackling these tough events

Leith and Athletics NZ Results

Short Trail

BUNGARD Laura Kate
MOLETA KM 6.6 1:35:28 09:36:48 109th 
CANAL ROYA KM 16.4 2:52:24 10:53:43 108th 1 
LARRACA KM 21.9 4:05:39 12:06:58 99th 9 
CANDANCHU KM 28 4:49:27 12:50:46 102th 3 
MOTRIZ TUCA KM 34.8 6:25:49 14:27:08 111th 9 
ESTIVIELLAS KM 37.5 7:14:24 15:15:44 113th 2
PISCINAS KM 43.9 16:01
Withdrew

Long Trail

CHAMBERLAIN Julia Wendy

Finished 64th Female
Finish Time 13:17:51
Pace
6.10 km/h
09:50 min/km
Female

Splits

SOLANA KM 4 0:19:40 07:19:39 53th
CARRETON KM 14.9 1:53:01 08:53:01 63th 10 
IZAS KM 25.6 3:05:25 10:05:25 65th 2 
FORMIGAL KM 29.9 4:36:01 11:36:01 67th 2 
TRUCHAS KM 40.3 6:32:04 13:32:03 63th 4 
COLL D’AYOUS KM 46.8 7:14:56 14:14:56 63th
PEIRANERE KM 60 9:23:00 16:22:59 45th 18 
CANDANCHU KM 64.9 10:10:34 17:10:33 61th 16
TUCA KM 70.5 11:43:27 18:43:26 64th 3
ESTIVIELLAS KM 73.7 12:28:21 19:28:21 64th
PISCINAS 13:15:27 20:15:26 64th 
Meta 13:17:51 20:17:50 64th 

U20 Mountain Classic

MCNEILLY Jessica Anne

Placed 45th Female
Time  0:48:40
Pace  9.25 km/h
Pace 06:29 min/km
Female 45th

Splits
Tiempo de carrera Tiempo parcial Pl. Clasificación Femenina
CARGATES KM 3.8 0:29:17 08:44:17 42th 
PRE META 0:46:11 09:01:11 45th 3 
Meta 0:48:40 09:03:39 45th 

 

Brighton Backyard Ultra, Saturday 27 & Sunday 28 September 2025

Brighton, Dunedin, New Zealand

Visit Event Website/Facebook Group >> Brighton Backyard Ultra 

View Results >> Brighton Backyard Ultra 2025 Results

Read the ODT Online Report >> Surfside spiral

Description

A Backyard Ultra is a form of ultramarathon race where competitors must consecutively run a 6.7km course in less than one hour, every hour. When each lap is completed, the remaining time within the hour is used to recover and replenish for the next hour’s race. The race finishes when one person completes one more lap than anyone else

Lydia Pattillo leads the Leith team 

Last year’s winner Tom Turtle once again took the top spot, running 29 loops, close to 200km.  Leith’s top performer was Lydia Pattillo who completed 20 laps more than 130 kms. She was also the top female athlete and was the fourth top performer.

The event raised $3250 for the King’s High School cross-country team. A barbecue raised funds for the Brighton Pump Track Project and runners also donated more than 40 pairs of shoes to the Dunedin Night Shelter.

Well done to our Leith community at this weekends Brighton Backyard Ultra “Running in Paradise”
We had it all, wind, calm, rain, heat, chill over every terrain possible! Well done everyone regardless of if you were there for a good time or a long time; an epic event.
Thanks to RD Scott Weatherall and our timing wizard Sebastian Sole

Whether you set a new personal best or simply took part, every runner inspires us. This event is built on attitude, passion and gratitude and that is why people do it

Results with Leith & Friends Highlighted

1   Tom Turtle 36 M 22:36:08 29 laps
2   Scott Rogers 40 M 18:48:33 28 laps
3   Harvey Stephens 22 M -6 laps 23
4   Lydia Pattillo 37 F -9 laps 20
10 Rocky Allan 18 M -14 laps 15
17 Isaac Tripp 31 M -17 laps 12
19 Mel Warhurst 30 F -17 laps 12
20 Tom Heath 58 M -17 laps 12
23 Chris Lamb 35 M -18 laps 11
25 Josh lamb 32 M -18 laps 11
27 Sean Galdeman 21 M -19 laps 10
28 Robyn O’Neill 47 F -19 laps 10
30 Wayne Porteous 63 M -19 laps 10
33 Logan Bosworth 18 M -19 laps 10
38 Katherine Boomer 56 F -20 laps 9
41 Timmy Lungley 32 M -20 laps 9
42 Sebastian Potgieter 33 M -20 laps 9
49 Andrew Bosworth 58 M -22 laps 8
57 Royce Earl 38 M -23 laps 6
61 Chrissy Montgomery 58 F -24 laps 5
65 Hannah Barton 18 F -24 laps 5
67 100 Wayne Stephenson 57 M -24 laps 5
72 21 Craig Walters 46 M -24 laps 6
85 83 Ross Gatenby 74 M -26 laps 3
93 41 Harrie Chander 35 M -27 laps 2
94 128 Andy Smith 51 M -27 laps 2
102 49 Jocelyn Springthorpe 67 F -28 laps 1
103 95 Steve Tripp M -28 laps 1

 

 

Vietnam Mountain Marathon, 19/20 September 2025

Sapa, a spectacular mountain region in North Vietnam

Visit Event Website >> VMM Vietnam Mountain Marathon 

For results >> Vietnam Mountain Marathon 2025 results

Congratulations to Leith’s Theo Atkinson who finished 8th in this tough race. His time was 16:17:52 

 

MERRELL RACE TEKAPO, Saturday 13 September 2025

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Visit Event Website for results and details >> MERRELL RACE TEKAPO

Congratulations to the Leith athletes who competed in the various events.  Kristy Eyles, Alice Cuthbert and Claudia Cooke achieved second placed podiums

Leith Results for the 50km

2 KRISTY EYLES  04:39:25 NZL | 40-49 (1) Female (2)
23 CLAUDIA COOKE  03:11:21 NZL | 20-29 (2) Female (4)

Leith Results for the 21km

9 AARON EYLES (#1036) 01:47:32 NZL | 40-49 (1) Male (8)

Leith Results for the 16km

7 ALICE CUTHBERT  01:19:47 NZL | 20-29 (1) Female (2)

14 SUE CUTHBERT  01:28:19 NZL | 50-59 (1) Female (4)

17 DAVID LIDDELL  01:32:54 NZL | 30-39 (7) Male (12)

 

Whiskey Creek Challenge,  Saturday 13 September 2025 

Dolamore Park, Gore

Visit the Event Website >> Whiskey Creek Challenge

For Results >> Whiskey Creek Challenge Results

Based at Dolamore Park, just 10 minutes from Gore, in beautiful native bush, running loops around the 5km Whiskey Creek trail

Results from Leith and Friends

3hr (laps)

1. 426 Isaac Tripp 5 2:39:17 33:18 33:18 5 28:48 1 31:51

4. 446 Sine Garvey 4 2:30:33 36:19 39:02 1 36:19 4 37:38

DNF 447 Chris Taylor 4 2:26:13 37:47 39:44 2 32:37 1 36:33

DNF 417 Steve Tripp 4 2:29:57 40:00 40:00 4 35:09 1 37:29

Just Run Some Laps Challenge

2. 423 Paul Cox 8 23:21:33 1:06:41 10:52:33 6 1:06:41 8 2:55:11

3. 441 Josh Tripp 3 3:20:03 41:14 1:53:22 1 41:14 3 1:06:41

New World Gore 24-Hour Challenge

1. 6 Dave Pearson 26 23:42:38 1:17:46 1:17:46 26 36:07 1 54:43

2. 13 Andrew Tripp 22 23:46:00 59:00 2:04:24 4 50:47 1 1:04:49

Nithdale Genetics 12-Hour Challenge

1. 102 Frank De Jong 12 11:34:13 1:02:18 1:14:18 5 44:24 1 57:51

RB Rural 6-Hour Challenge

1. 415 Patrick Manulat 10 5:55:35 35:22 37:19 4 32:49 5 35:33

 

Scenic Circles Backyard Ultra, Saturday 6 September 2025

Centennial Reserve, Timaru

Visit Event Website >> Scenic Circles Backyard Ultra

For full results >> Scenic Circles Backyard Ultra Results

Leith Results

Leith had three athletes competing with Isaac Tripp being the best performed. Leith’s Trail Captain Rocky Allan was pleased that he beat Steve Tripp

DNF Isaac Tripp 19 laps, 127.49km, Race time 14:37:33

DNF Rocky Allan 3 laps, 20.13km, Race time 2:02:44  Beat Steve

DNF Steve Tripp 2 laps, 13.42km, Race time 1:22:55 

 

Fresh Choice Lake Dunstan Trail Marathon,  Sunday 7 September 2025

Lake Dunstan, Cromwell, New Zealand

Visit Event website for details and results >> Fresh Choice Lake Dunstan Trail Marathon

Full Results >> Fresh Choice Lake Dunstan Trail Marathon Results

Congratulations to the Leith athletes who took part in this tough and scenic event

11  Anna O’Byrne, 3rd Female, 2nd Vet1,  Time: 3:44:06.50,  Pace:5:19

16  Angela Bishop, 6th Female, 4th Open,  Time: 3:53:36.69,  Pace 5:32

43  Ian Morison , 24th Male, 4th Vet3 ,  Time:  4:20:37.78,  Pace 6:11

Leith’s Ian Morison had this to say…

I was really chuffed with my day out for the Lake Dunstan marathon. Perfect conditions (the Brazilians thought it was a bit cold) – nice temperature, sunny and not too much breeze. The views were stunning and the track was excellent, and for a Dunner runner the 660 m elevation was very manageable, but obviously slowed us all down. It’s a well-run event with aid stations every 4 km, so it’s easy to travel light. Andrew Pirie from Cromwell provided good company and encouragement for ¾ of the race, but I watched him disappear ahead for the final quarter. But I did manage to push a bit harder for the final 4 km and improve my flagging pace and felt “good” at the end with a time that was better than I had hoped for

 

Shunters & Grunters Relay, Saturday 6 September 2025

Otago Central Rail Trail between Waipiata and Hyde stations

A free event organised superbly by the Hill City-University Harriers club

Visit Event Website >> Hill City-University Harriers

Direct to full results >> Shunters & Grunters Relay 2025 Results

Leith had a number of athletes taking place in this increasingly popular handicap event.  Armin Burgmeier (Switzerland) reports winning the Mixed Team race and a new course record set by Leon Miyahara from Caversham Harriers

Leg 2 5km Glenda Norris 31:55; Jocelyn Springthorpe 35:24

 

Great Naseby Water Race, 27-30 August 2025

Naseby, New Zealand

Visit Event Website >> Great Naseby Water Race

Leith athletes competed with distinction in the various events on offer over the four days from Wednesday 27 to Saturday 30

Full Results >> Trail Results 2025 

For live results >> Great Naseby Water Race LIVE results

Leith Results

200 Miler

Leith’s Andy Smith finished 8th overall, 6th male in 58:32:53.4.
Sebastian Potgieter finished 16th overall, 13th male in 74:11:36.8 

100 Miler

Congratulations to Leith’s John Bayne who won this event in 16:12:52.8. 
Leith’s Trail Captain Rocky Allan finished fifth overall, 4th male in 21:15:00.8.
Wayne Stephenson finished 24th overall, 21st male in 28:38:10.6 

100km

Christopher Holmes finished 16th overall, 10th male in 12:33:23.1 (40 min faster than 2024)

60km Team Event

The Leith/Community team of Jared Brenssell / Simon Perry won the 60km team event in 4:51:39.2.
The all female Leith team of Stephanie Wilson / Alice Cuthbert finished third in 5:11:18.1
Another all female Leith team of  Sara-Jayne Guest / Claudia Sole which finished fourth in 5:11:45.3 
Nolan Hill / Caitlin O’Donnell finished sixth in 5:15:17.4
Chris Tipper / Daniel Pettigrew finished 17th in 6:16.34

50Km

Lydia Pattillo won the female category, finishing 8th overall in 4:36:26.5. 
Theo Atkinson finished second overall in 3:54:08.5.
Fraser Bailey finished 11th overall in 4:48:16.6 
Ellie Pritchard finished 13th overall, 4th female in 5:04:00.1
Sue Hendry finished 18th overall, 5th female in 5:16:47.4
Emily Harris finished 20th overall, 8th female in 6:11:56.8
DNF 535 Hope Duncan F  4 Laps (07:29:49)

Big Easy Hill Run Time Trial, 10.30am Saturday 16th August 2025

Start: Signal Hill Reserve Carpark (behind Logan Park High School) on Butts Rd

Organised by Athletics Otago as a fun event for those who love challenging their hill climbing  abilities

Visit Event Website for full details and entries >> Big Easy Hill Run Time Trial

Full results are now available >> Trail Results 2025 

The Big Easy Hill Climb Time Trial run is a handicap event using the Signal Hill trail. The race starts at the Signal Hill Reserve Carpark (behind Logan Park High School) on Butts Rd, and finishes at the Signal Hill lookout – a distance of approx 6km

The weather definitely came to the party with an almost cloudless sky and cool temperatures too. Thanks to the organisers, timekeepers, marshalls, the athletes themselves and all others who helped make this an awesome event

Most of the competitors are here after the race at the finish – Photo by Gisela Sole

Check out the awesome Leith action below captured by club photographer Gisela Sole

Fantastic Leith action photos below taken by Tim Dawbin from HCU

Leith results

2  Graham Fisher LEIT SM 27:00

4  Ben Pigou LEIT MM35-39 28:16

5  Aaron Eyles LEIT MM40-44 28:50

7  Sam Leather LEIT SM 29:19

8  Andrew Lonie LEIT MM50-54 29:22

8  Fraser Bailey LEIT SM 29:22

10 Bryan Staunton LEIT SM 29:28

11 Mark O’ Neill LEIT MM40-44 30:18

12 Kristy Eyles LEIT MW40-44 30:21 1st F

13 Armin Burgmeier LEIT MM35-39 30:36

16 James Pemberton LEIT MM50-54 31:05

17 Jack Tisch LEIT SM 31:09 +4:57

20 Matt Dent LEIT MM35-39 32:43

21 Alice Cuthbert LEIT SW 32:50 4th F

22 Christopher Holmes LEIT MM50-54 33:25

23  Andy Smith LEIT MM50-54 33:47

25  Ian Morison LEIT MM65-69 36:07 1st MM65-69

28  Sue Cuthbert LEIT MW55-59 37:02 5th F

29  Marc Boulle LEIT MM70-74 37:06 1st MM70-74

30  Lee Flowers LEIT MM55-59 37:13

35  Chris Sole LEIT MM65-69 42:37 2nd MM65-69

37  Calan Mcdermott LEIT SM Run 43:27

38  Jade Lee LEIT MW50-54 45:28 8th F

41  Dave McLean LEIT MM70-74 48:56 2nd MM70-74

 

The Glass Half Full, Brisbane’s 50km Trail Ultra-Marathon, Saturday 19th July 2025

Brisbane, Australia

Visit the Event Website for full results and details >> The Glass Half Full, Brisbane’s 50km Trail Ultra-Marathon

Congratulations to Leith’s Theo Atkinson who finished third (out of 608) overall, second male (of 415) and first (of 61) in his category (18-29) in 5 hours 6 minutes 50 seconds.

This is what he had to say about his experience in travelling to and running this event:

“Couldn’t have gone much better. 2nd place male, 1st in my category, cant believe it! Crazy what can happen when you don’t run the wrong way. My bags were already overweight on the flight out so I’m not sure what I’ll do now. Overtook 2nd place on the final climb with 5km to go and ran for my life to the finish. Heat was definitely the biggest factor coming straight from Dunners, had to dig insanely deep for the last 10km, gave it everything. The course was incredible, super runnable being mainly on wide groomed trails through gumtree forest with the choruses of cockatoos, parakeets and whip birds overhead, interspersed with single track here and there. Luckily no snakes to be seen. It was also organised to perfection, great aid stations, marshals everywhere, incredible support, and really well marked. I lost count of how many times I heard “good onya mate!”. So I guess Thursday dunes does pay off.”

 

The Rasselbock Half Marathon, Sunday 13 July 2025

Sherwood Pines Forest Park, Nottinghamshire, UK

A single loop half or two-loop full marathon around the stunning Sherwood Pines Forest

Visit Event Website >> Rasselbock Marathon & Half Marathon

See full results >> The Rasselbock Half Marathon 2025 Results

Congratulations to Leith’s Sean Galdeman who won the Half-Marathon in a record time of 1 hour 23 minutes 18 seconds beating a field of 422 competitors

 

 

Mt Difficulty Ascent, Saturday 14 June 2025

Bannockburn, Cromwell

Visit the event website for details and full results >> Mt Difficulty Ascent

Leith athletes were out there again tackling the mountain.  See the Leith and friends results below. 

25km

19 140 Orlaith Heron F 4 41 1 F 40-49 Dunedin 3:36:20.62 8:39

37 146 Laura Bungard F 7 23 5 F 18-39 Dunedin 4:01:13.08 9:39

44km

12 27 Isaac Tripp M 11 30 9 M 18-39 Dunedin 6:22:18.53 8:41

17 19 Theo Atkinson M 15 26 10 M 18-39 Brighton 6:29:50.73 8:52

23 54 Anna O’Byrne F 4 41 1 F 40-49 Dunedin 6:51:22.28 9:21

24 43 Steve Tripp M 20 59 2 M 50-59 Dunedin 6:56:23.09 9:28

28 26 Rocky Allan M 24 18 13 M 18-39 Dunedin 7:03:16.05 9:37

45 40 Ross Campbell M 34 31 17 M 18-39 Edinburgh 7:35:56.83 10:22

54 5 Lydia McLean F 15 34 9 F 18-39 Te Anau 8:21:32.53 11:24

59 9 Dave McLean M 42 71 3 M 60+ Dunedin 9:17:51.94 12:41 (Vet 4 Category prize Roaring Meg Pinot Noir!)

Comments from the athletes themselves

Steve Tripp writes: “Mt Diff was glorious. Great weather. Lovely views. Tough climbs and good company. I managed my goal of getting in under 7 hours… just. I got a special medal for being the first person to do Mt Diff 10 times!

Anna (O’Byrne) passed me at the same spot as last year! Rocky (Allan), (Theo Atkinson Isaac Tripp, Laura Bungard and others) took a wrong turn early on and did 5km extra, then caught me again and we travelled together for most of the rest of the race. Isaac realised the mistake and rejoined the course for less than 1 km and had an excellent run otherwise.”

Theo A continues “…we managed to go the wrong way with 2 other 44km and maybe 10 25km of the front runners, including Laura, after only 3km or so. Ended up running an extra 4km and were plum last by the time we rejoined the course and 20-30mins behind the front! Finished in 6hours 30mins, 15th I think, a little disappointed but not too bad I suppose.”

Rocky summarizes: “Race was pretty average. A group of us, right at the start, went the wrong way and added a bonus 4km to our total run distance. That meant playing catch-up. The mental side of being so far behind really told in the second half where I lost the will to race and cruised the last 20km. Still an amazing day, views, climbs and atmosphere! I am not too worried about it though. I know how to pace it better next time! I am now off to CHC and then Australia on Tuesday crewing (Paul Maxwell, John Bayne, …) at Dead Cow Gully BYU next weekend.”

Anna reflects on a “fun day out”. “My goal was to start like a donkey and finish like a horse. I feel I managed to do this. I finished 1st in my age group and 4th overall. Rocky and Laura had a rough day. They were in the front pack that took a wrong turn (due to poor marking) and ended running an extra 5km.”

 

 

Rustic Run or Walk, Saturday 14 June 2025

Bannockburn, Cromwell

Visit the event website for details and full results >> Rustic Run or Walk

Rustic Run Half-Marathon Relay

Overall fastest Team, Runner Beans, Siobhan (1st and 4th laps), Luke (3rd) and Archie (2nd) McKinlay enjoyed their day out despite recently recovered from a COVID infection, “…and all only just started gentle running again, but had registered for the Rustic Run at Mt Difficulty as a team in the Half marathon some time ago. We decided we were well enough to go and had a very nice weekend away. It was a beautiful sunny day at Mt Difficulty Winery – good to see some Leith faces at the prizegiving and in the results. The team’s event for the Rustic Run is 4 laps of 5.25 kms through a great twisty course around the Bannockburn Sluicing’s.”

1 348 Runner Beans Dunedin 2:04:00.03  5:52

Siobhan 32:48  6:13  Archie 29:22  5:34  Luke 27:44  5:16  Siobhan 34:06  6:28

RUSTIC Run 21km Solo (29 Finishers)

1 315 Geoff Williamson M 1 40 1 M 40-49 Dunedin 1:41:14.93  4:48

2 336 Sean Latimer M 2 40 2 M 40-49 Dunedin 1:44:18.18  4:56

 

 

 

Best Dam Backyard Ultra, Saturday 10 May 2025

Otematata, New Zealand

NZ Championship course

Visit the Event Website for full details and live results >> Best Dam Backyard Ultra

Leith had many taking part in this grueling event

The event ended with a thrilling battle between Caversham’s legendary ultra runner Glenn Sutton and Timaru’s Macee Latimer. There is only one winner in this event and Macee was unstopplable. She prevailed running 43 laps, 288.53 kms in a time of 29 hours 15 minutes 25 seconds to outlast Glenn’s 42 laps, 281.82 kms 29 hours 21 minutes 37 seconds.

We say there can only be one winner in this type of event, but in reality everyone was a winner. None more so than our own Leith contingent

Congratulations to Andy Smith (has who recently joined Leith) was the last Leith athlete still competing. He covered 234.85 kms in his 32 laps. Well done to Lydia Pattillo who was the second best performed Leith athlete and second best female athlete running 214.72 Kms in the 32 laps she completed. Well done to all the Leith athletes who took part in this event.  See the Leith stats below:

Pos, bib, Name, City, Laps, Kms, Time

DNF, 10, Andy Smith, Dunedin, 35, 234.85, 31:05:42
DNF, 27, Lydia Pattillo, Dunedin, 32, 214.72, 24:52:53
DNF, 22, James Davies, Auckland, 24, 161.04, 17:24:3
DNF, 56, Wayne Stephenson, Dunedin, 12, 80.52, 10:40:47
DNF, 31, Mark O’ Neill, Dunedin, 11, 73.81, 8:51:06
DNF, 66, Sue Hendry, Dunedin, 10, 67.10, 7:20:33
DNF 82 Robyn O’ Neill Dunedin 8 53.68 6:41:25
DNF, 67, Richard Hendry, Dunedin, 8, 53.68, 7:03:43

NZ Mountain Running Champs, 26 April 2025

Cardrona, New Zealand

For the full results >> Athletics New Zealand Mountain Running Champs 2025

Leith had fantastic success at the NZ Champs on Saturday over the 5km distance

Congrats to Mel Aitken and Rocky Allan at the NZ Mountain champs on Saturday

Mel Aitken took out the Masters Women’s title. She finished 15th overall and first in the Masters Women 45-49 grade in a time of 30 minutes 50 seconds. She was also the first woman to finish too

Rocky Allan finished in 5th place in the Men’s Under 20 race and 8th overall in a time of 27 minutes 51 seconds.

 

ANZAC Day Leith Soldiers Monument Run/Walk, 11am Friday 25 April 2025

Ocean Grove Sportsground, Dunedin

The annual Leith ANZAC Day run took place on Friday. About 30 people ran and walked to the Soldiers Monument Lookout in Highcliff Rd from Ocean Grove Sportsground from 11am yesterday to honour the Anzac soldiers and women who lost their lives at war. See the photo collage below

 

The 42nd 3 Peaks Mountain Race, & NZ Short Course Trail Champs, Sunday 30 March 2025

Dunedin, New Zealand

For the full results  >> Trail Results 2025

Visit the Event Website >> 3 Peaks Mountain Races

Hill crowned two-time champion >> ODT Online report Monday 31 March 2025

The 42nd 3 Peaks Mountain Race events took place in cool and wet muddy conditions on Sunday. The sun peaked through the clouds in the afternoon bringing some relief from the mid morning rain.  This was Race Director Steve Tripp’s last as the head of this enormously successful event and he leaves it in splendid condition with the biggest field ever with over 600 participating in the three events, the 11km, the 26km and the 56km. He headed the growth of the event from the less than 200 entrants 6 years ago culminating in this present 600+ field.  He was ably assisted by Mark O’Neill (Site Manager), Siobhan McKinlay and Gaya Gnanalingam (Volunteer Co-ordinators), Margaret Knox (results and lots of another things), club president Chris Sole and club vice president Lydia Pattillo, club captains and many other Leith members and the over 100 volunteers from the Otago clubs and the running community far and wide.  We thank everyone involved in this great event that has now firmly established itself on the mountain trail running calendar due to the efforts of these people. See Chris Sole’s report further below for a more indepth review of the event

How did the Leith athletes fare?

The wet muddly conditions had a big part to play in how the races panned out…..

Leith Harrier runners were prominent in the results with Rocky Allans’s Male Under 20 record of  06:08:27 in the 56km as one of the highlights.  He won the Male Under 20 grade finishing 12th male and 14th overall. Laura Bungard finished third in the female 20-34 category and fifth female overall in 06:42:44.  Lydia Pattillo was third in the female 35-49 category and tenth overall in the female category. Jamie Ward finished second in the Male 50-59 category in 07:52:58.  The tough as teak Dave McLean finished first in the M70+ category in 10:29:29 

In the 26km Classic, Leith’s Margie Campbell finished first in the Female 35-49 grade and second in the Female grade in 02:40:00 after a tough tussle with the Female winner Natalie Phillips (F20-34 grade) who finished in 02:35:07

Leith’s Janus Staufenberg finished third in the 26km Classic in 02:13:23 in this, his first attempt at this event

In the 11km Over the Summit, Leith also had a podium finish with Theo Nicholson finishing second across the line in a fast time of 00:51:52

Full Leith Results with records and podiums highlighted

56km (90 Finishers, 27 F, 10 DNS, 9 DNF)

13 CHRIS BISLEY (#891) 06:07:23 35-49 (5) M (11)
14 ROCKY ALLAN (#801) 06:08:27 U20 (1) M (12) New Record Men Under 20
23 LAURA BUNGARD (#877) 06:42:44 20-34 (3) F (5)
28 HAMISH VODANE (#843) 06:59:42 35-49 (7) M (20)
34 ISAAC TRIPP (#896) 07:10:32 20-34 (16) M (25)
35 LYDIA PATTILLO (#835) 07:11:41 35-49 (3) F (10)
51 JAMIE WARD (#892) 07:52:58 50-59 (2) M (36)
83 JACK TISCH (#878) 09:42:33 20-34 (33) M (60)
87 DAVE MCLEAN (#848) 10:29:29 70+ (1) M (62)

26km (398 Finishers, 180 F, 21 DNS, 3 DNF)

3 JANUS STAUFENBERG 02:13:23 20-34 (3) M (3)
8 SAM HOSKINS (#349) 02:20:38 20-34 (7) M (8)
13 GEOFF WILLIAMSON 02:28:04 35-49 (3) M (13)
15 LARS WINTHER (#313) 02:30:35 20-34 (11) M (15)
16 BEN PIGOU (#458) 02:31:10 35-49 (4) M (16)
18 JAMES DAVIES (#371) 02:33:50 20-34 (13) M (18)
20 AARON EYLES (#197) 02:35:40 35-49 (5) M (19)
23 SAM LEATHER (#240) 02:38:38 20-34 (16) M (22)
24 RYAN WHITBURN (#405) 02:39:30 20-34 (17) M (23)
25 MARGIE CAMPBELL 02:40:00 35-49 (1) F (2)
31 ALICE CUTHBERT (#320) 02:42:17 20-34 (2) F (3)
34 STEPHANIE WILSON 02:43:24 20-34 (3) F (4)
35 KRISTY EYLES (#198) 02:43:24 35-49 (2) F (5)
39 FRASER BAILEY (#137) 02:45:24 20-34 (21) M (33)
44 HAMISH CARTER (#206) 02:47:56 20-34 (23) M (37)
45 BRYAN STAUNTON 02:48:10 20-34 (24) M (38)
47 CLAUDIA SOLE (#247) 02:48:19 20-34 (6) F (8)
60 ANDREW WILSON (#443) 02:53:26 35-49 (15) M (49)
62 CLAUDIA COOKE (#249) 02:53:47 20-34 (9) F (12)
64 JENNY DUFFY (#479) 02:54:11 20-34 (10) F (13)
66 SANDOR TOTH (#386) 02:55:29 20-34 (32) M (52)
73 CHARLIE HUINS (#433) 02:58:13 20-34 (35) M (57)
75 NINA BATUCAN (#158) 02:59:08 20-34 (14) F (17)
76 SIMON PERRY (#174) 02:59:12 35-49 (18) M (59)
79 BRIAN HOOVER (#122) 02:59:58 20-34 (37) M (60)
80 HAYDEN SCORRINGE 03:00:05 35-49 (19) M (61)
83 PHIL PAGE (#446) 03:02:15 50-59 (2) M (63)
110 ANGELA BISHOP (#378) 03:08:42 35-49 (5) F (27)
135 DAVID LIDDELL (#398) 03:15:26 35-49 (35) M (101)
139 MARTHA VICKERS 03:15:46 20-34 (29) F (36)
163 SUE HENDRY (#340) 03:22:54 50-59 (2) F (50)
232 CALAN MCDERMOTT 03:40:18 Under 20 (14) M (149)
245 RICHARD HENDRY 03:44:29 60-69 (5) M (156)
248 ELLA REDMOND (#454) 03:44:58 20-34 (66) F (90)
272 CHARLOTTE GREENSLADE 03:51:19 20-34 (72) F (102)
283 CLAIRE CHARLETON 03:53:40 20-34 (75) F (109)
302 EMILY THOMAS (#308) 04:00:25 20-34 (85) F (120)
308 CRAIG WALTERS (#200) 04:04:54 35-49 (62) M (185)
325 JADE LEE (#305) 04:16:33 50-59 (11) F (133)
335 MEG BARNES (#410) 04:23:38 20-34 (90) F (137)
376 ANDREW BOSWORTH 04:59:18 50-59 (23) M (214)

11km (72 Finishers, 45 F, 5 DNS, 0 DNF)

2 THEO NICHOLSON (#6) 00:51:52 All Ages (2) M (2)
7 PADDY OU (#42) 01:02:53 All Ages (5) M (5)
8 ARCHIE MCKINLAY (#5) 01:04:49 All Ages (6) M (6)
20 TADHG RYAN CHARLETON 01:14:35 All Ages (14) M (14)
66 JOCELYN SPRINGTHORPE 02:03:10 All Ages (40) F (40)

Leith Club President Chris Sole’s Review and thanks to all

In one week, Leith offered two contrasting Events. On Thursday, as the rain cleared, the wind eased, classic beautiful Dunedin weather emerged for The 69th Leith Harbour Free 5/10km. There were 82 finishers (35 Female), with five Course Records and 43 PB’s achieved. The sun was still shining on Saturday. The sun is shining today. The sun was not shining on Sunday. The icy southerly rain serenaded the toughest of the tough running, walking and volunteering in the 42nd 3 Peaks Mountain Races. The Statistics first: 621 registered, 569 starters, 99 (56km), 398 (26km), 72 (11km), 45% female, 55% male overall, 60% female in 11k, 45% female in 26k, 30% female in 56k (28% last year)

This is an extraordinary Event. It is filled with desire, determination, discipline, grit, guts and passion. It is local, driven from within the Leith and wider Community. It has a loudly beating heart. It is instrumental in maintaining and showcasing our local Trail network, promoting the outdoors in all its muddy rugged glory. It celebrates fine achievements (see Results below!) while also encouraging grass roots participation. Thank you for participating. The TailEnders who endured the Longest Day bringing everyone safely home, require our deepest thanks: Scott and Laura McRodden (56km); Donna Tumaru and Gavin Chin (26km)

Thank you, Steve Tripp, 3 Peaks Race Director, over the last 6 years. You have left an indelible mark on the 3 Peaks Race History. Not only have traditions continued, but it has grown under your Leadership. Your agility, dedication, discipline, energy, excellence, hard work, independence, and free thinking has catapulted 3 Peaks into the National Trail Running Network consciousness. You have run (and walked) every inch of the courses, and your intimate knowledge has fostered the foundation of your advertisements. This honesty has been instrumental in ratcheting up the profile. The consequence is more and more people are wanting to participate from outside Dunedin. It has outstanding organisational acumen, high quality community engagement, consistent liaison with DCC (Parks and Forests), City and Wenita Forests, certified and approved by DOC, a UTMB Index Race, Outdoor Mark Safety Audit, The Green Hut Track Clearing Group, along with a host of other Volunteer groups and individuals. Steve, as you step down, and hand-over to Lydia Pattillo, the legacy you leave behind is the vision of adventure, affordability, quality organisation, respect for one another and the environment, and safety for all participants. Thank you. Perhaps now, it is time for you to run the race you lovingly embraced.

Thank you to the Leadership Team of Mark O’Neill (Race Day and Start/Finish Site Director), Siobhan McKinlay and Gaya Gnanalingam (Volunteer Directors with over 100 Volunteers to manage).

And here, I wish to acknowledge the (almost) complete Team:

Track Clearing (benefits the entire Dunedin Community): Green Hut Group, Dave McLean, Wayne Porteous, Theo Nicholson, Fraser Bailey, Lynne Kerr and Chris Sole

Race Starts and Volunteer Briefings: Steve

Registration of runners, marshalls: Mark, Gaya, Margaret Knox, Siobhan, Tadhg Ryan-Charlton

All Gear for Marshalls: Richard & Margie Campbell

Gear Checks: Orlaith Heron, Marc Boulle, Croydon Paton, Andrew Wilson

Course marking: Steve Tripp, Anna O’Byrne, Orlaith Heron, Wayne Porteous, Chris Sole, Wayne Stephenson, plus others.

56km:

Craigieburn (Rachel Shields), Wakari/Tanner (Rachel Masterton, Roger Caton), Bottom of Pineapple track (Matt Dent), Pineapple track T intersection (Wayne Stephenson), Bullring- Aid Station (Opoho PTA), Bottom of Longridge Rd on Whare Flat Rd. Aid station (Wendy Tripp, Warren Payne, Trevor Grant), Start of Tunnel Track (Danny Baillie), Tunnel Track (Orlaith Heron), McRaes Stream crossing (Richard Campbell), Intersection of Racemans to Powder Creek detour (Joanna Isaacs; Hilary Lawrence), Silverstream crossing (Gretchen Brownstein), Bottom of Powder Ridge (Colin Tocher), Powder Ridge/Long Ridge intersection (Bacon Knob)( Grant Koedyk, Mark & Luke Geddes, James Bishop), Pulpit Rock (Chris Taylor), High Top intersection Aid station (Anthony, Julia and Henry Eyles),

3PEAKS 26/11 km race

Start line (Mark, Steve Tripp, Gaya, Margaret Knox, Siobhan, Pete Hughes, Marc Boulle, TMC), Set-up Finish, Register Chingford 11km (Mark & Gaya),

Transport 11 km runners to Sullivans Dam (Siobhan and Luke McKinlay),

Reservoir dam (Georgia Mayer), Turn off to Craigieburn (Martin Jones), Wakari Tanner rd (Cheryl Kelly, Tania Hollis + TMC), Bottom of Pineapple track intersection. (Nicky Bisley and 2 kids), Pineapple track T intersection (Wayne Stephenson again)

Flagstaff summit (Mark, Lisa, Caitlin O’Donnell, Leanne Hill, Tiana Kyte), Flagstaff turn (Michael Taylor), Flagstaff out and back safety marshal (Adrien Matyn), Flagstaff Aid station (Felicity Brown, Sarah Stephen), Swampy Summit – Aid station (Kevin Blair, Dan Hayman, Hope Duncan, Katherina Weidenhiller, Jenni Topliss), Leith Valley at bottom of water dept track/Bottom of Morrisons (Andy Smith, Royce Earl), Dryden rd/ Leith Valley (Laura Bogdan, Shayne Hughes; Bruce & Judy Norrish), Leith Valley Road at entrance to new track Aid station (Chris, Gisela and Sebastian Sole), Mt Cargill (Team 1 Liam Turk, Kate Wightman, Sarina Anderson, Jilly O’Brien, Hannah Hayward/Team 2 Ron McClay-Barnes, Lynne Kerr, Carli Richter, Bruce Adams), Bethunes carpark (Mel Orchard, Maria Montes de Oca, Emily & Rich Harriis, Norward st/Bethunes driveway (Alan Somerville & Ruth Barnett, Val Cleverley & Willow Chapman), Cnr Norward St/Tannadice st (Maia Murdoch, Richard Parker), Cnr Tannadice St/Dryden St (Jenny Winter, Lauren Beels),

Finish line: Site Manager – Mark O’Neill

Admin Entries/Results/Prizes – Margaret Knox, Belinda Leckie, Mark Peters

Manual record numbers on sheets provided – Pete Hughes, Mark Peters, Marc Boulle

Hand out finish medals – Susan Craig, Imogen Holmstead-Scott, Vanessa Bradbury

Spot prize table – Christina Black

Provide runners food and drink, sell merchandise – Frankie McKinlay, Annabelle Martin, Rata Jamieson

Finish line photos Jessica Kats

Extra help – Siobhan & Gaya, Luke McKinlay, Roisin McKinlay, Nick, Wayne S, Lynne K, Colin T, Richard C, Sebastian and Gisela S, and a host of others!

MC – Grant McLean, Steve Tripp

Finish line medic- Paramedic St Johns

 

Motatapu, Saturday 1 March 2025

Glendhu Station, Glendhu Bay, Lake Wānaka (Start for the longer events)
Wilcox Green, Arrowtown (Finish) and (Start for the shorter events)

Visit the Event Website for full results and further information >> Motatapu

Leith Results

UDC Finance Miners Trail Run 15km
Start/Finish  Wilcox Green, Arrowtown (Finish) and (Start for the shorter events)

6 AARON EYLES (#2117) 01:26:05 NZL | 40-49 (2) M (6)

Allpress Espresso Trail Marathon 42km
Start – Glendhu Station, Glendhu Bay, Lake Wānaka
Finish – Wilcox Green, Arrowtown

23 KRISTY EYLES (#1151) 04:00:23 NZL | 40-49 (1) F (9)

 

Only Fools & Horses, Saturday 1 March 2025

Wedderburn, Maniototo, New Zealand

The horse is celebrated for its speed as one of the world’s fastest land animals.

Event Decription:
A galloping racehorse can top 70km per hour. Only Fools and Horses is a 40km hoof/foot race starting and finishing at Wedderburn, Maniototo.
What kind of human fool thinks they have a chance?
Run or ride across private land, over wide open spaces. Follow an ancient water race. Climb stunning ridges up big hills with stunning views …for more visit the event Website >> Only Fools & Horses

Leith Athletes excelled although they didn’t beat any of the horses

Leith Results

1st  Margie Campbell F (1) 3:33:58.25 8:37
2nd  Richard Campbell M (1) 3:33:59.07 8:37

 

Papatowai Challenge, Saturday 1 March 2025

Papatowai, Catlins, New Zealand

The Papatowai Challenge is a pre-season fun run and walk from a holiday home in the Catlins

Visit the event information site for full results and further information >> Papatowai Challenge

For results >> Trail Results 2025

Leith participated in this event in huge numbers.  We have the Leith results below:

Papatowai Challenge 15km Leith Results

3 Nathan Shanks, Leith 59:21 3:49 /km 3rd OM
4 Craig Iverson, Leith 1:00:08 3:53 /km 1st MM40-49
5 Ben Pigou, Leith 1:03:07 4:03 /km 4th OM
6 Liam Turk, Leith 1:03:56 5th OM
8 Sam Leather, Leith 1:06:39 4:17 /km 7th OM
9 Kimberley Iverson, Leith 1:07:18 1st OW
10 Fraser Bailey, Leith 1:08:00 4:30 /km 8th OM
11 Mel Aitken, Leith 1:08:19 F (2) 1st MW45-59 4:23/km
19 Nina Batucan, Leith 1:13:17 5th OW
21 Alice Cuthbert Leith 1:13:36 6th OW
37 David Liddell, Leith 1:21:35 5:14 /km17th OM
39 Sue Hendry, Leith 1:21:57 4th MW45-59 5.56/km
72 Kelly Toth Leith 1:36:43 15th OW
73 Sandor Toth, Leith 1:36:44 25th OM
79 Craig Walters, Leith 1:38:19 8th MM40-49 (10 min PB)
102 Dave McLean Leith 1:46:21 8th MM60-99
117 Gaya Gnanalingam, Leith 1:50:45 13th MW35-44
121 Imogen Holmstead-Scott Leith, 1:52:58 33rd OW
2 Richard Hendry, Leith 2:01:17 2nd OM Walk

Papatowai Canter 5km Leith Results 

13 Steve Aitken, Leith 33:18 10th OM
36=Lydia and Ellie Pattillo, Leith 47:27 22nd OF
39 Emily Harris, Leith 47:40 24th OF

 

Tarawa Ultra-Trail T50 (52km), Saturday 15 February 2025

Te Puia, Rotorua

Visit Event Website for full results and details >> Tarawa Ultra-Trail T50

Mel Aitken smiled through her 50km Experience: “Tarawera 2025 didn’t disappoint. Temperatures sat in the low to mid 20s, but the shade of much of the course traversing through the Redwoods and around the Blue and Green lakes kept it cool and almost perfect running conditions. The calibre of athletes, both international and domestic across each distance was truly impressive and made for several new course records and really fast racing! I had a ball, the smile didn’t wane from my face across my 50k race, from start to finish. All in all, a magic weekend away and stoked to take an age group win and top 10 overall female. Happy days!”

44th Overall Mel AITKEN NZ 45-49W 04:30:41 8th Female

778th Overall Andrew Tripp NZ 55-59M 07:12:44

 

Pigs Backyard Ultra, 10am Saturday 15 February 2025

Silverstream Reserve, Whare Flat, Dunedin

Visit Event Website for full details and results >> Pigs Backyard Ultra

Silverstream Reserve, Whare Flat, Dunedin.

A Backyard Ultra is a form of running event where competitors try to consecutively run a loop measuring 6.7km in less than one hour. Restarting on the hour until there is only one person left standing

Runners that don’t complete a lap within 1 hour or are not in the starting corral for the start of the next lap are recorded as DNF (Did Not Finish)

Leith Results:

DNF Isaac Tripp 26 laps 174.46 kms 23:29:27 (race time)

DNF Lydia Pattillo  21 laps 140.91 kms 18:23:37 (race time)

DNF Jack Tisch 12 laps 80.52 kms 10:45:50 (race time)

DNF Corey Lewis 9 laps 60.39 kms 7:49:45 (race time)

DNF Logan Bosworth 5 laps 33.55 kms 4:41:27 (race time) 

DNF Sebastian Sole 3 laps 20.13 kms 2:23:43 (race time)

DNF Mark O’ Neill 3 laps 20.13 kms 2:45:10 (race time)

DNF Wayne Stephenson 3 laps 20.13 kms 2:46:06 (race time)

DNF Andrew Bosworth 2 laps 13.42 kms 1:52:42 (race time)

 

The Shotover Moonlight Ultra, Saturday 15 February 2025

Moke Lake, Queenstown

Visit the Event Website for full results and information >> Shotover Moonlight Marathon 

Leith had a Lass competing in the 56km Ultra Marathon

Laura Bungard had fanstatic result over the tough mountain course where she finished 13th overall, 2nd 18-39 Female in 9:14:46

Laura’s story: “WOW, what a race! An incredibly challenging course over the Ben Lomond Station, made tougher with the Central Otago heat! The course was rugged, often single goat tracks, climbing steep inclines, through station paddocks. With plenty of elevation, I thrived on the uphill, feeling strong, but struggled on several steep unmarked downhill sections, experiencing multiple falls and blisters! Despite this, the views from the Ridge lines were stunning and it was a privilege to be running in this part of the country!

The race pushed me in ways I didn’t expect. It wasn’t about getting stronger physically (although I feel my quads deserve a raise!); it was about moving through fear, trusting myself, my training and realising the biggest mountains you’ll climb are the ones in your head. After my big weeks of training, I am very happy with my performance: how I managed the heat, my fuelling, attacking the uphills, and most importantly, how I overcame several mental barriers throughout the gruelling race. To finish 3rd Female on this tough course is awesome! Stoked!”

 

Moonshine Trail, Saturday 15 February 2025

Dolamore Park near Gore

Visit the Event Website for details and results >> Moonshine Trail 

Held in and around the stunning scenery of Dolamore Park near Gore – the MLT Moonshine Trail, which is presented by Active Southland, has built a well-earned reputation as Southland’s premier mountain bike and off-road run

Fantastic wins and podiums for the Leith athletes Kimberley Iversen, Ben Pigou and Craig Iversen in the 15km Run

Craig Iverson writes: “Ben, Kimberley and I all had very good strong races at the Moonshine Trail near Gore. I and Ben took out 1st and 2nd in the Men’s 15km, with Kimberley running well for 1st in the Women’s race. Some treacherous conditions underfoot through the 12th and 13th km’s, but we kept on our feet and all finished with a good burst through the last 500m. I hope all Leith members at other events have had a great day results wise as well!”

15km Run Female : Junior (15-19)
Kimberley Iversen 1 1:17:27  1st Overall, 1st Junior (15-19)

15km Run Male : Open (20-39)
Ben Pigou 2 1:07:53 2nd Overall, 1st Open (20-39)

15km Run Male : Veteran (40-49)
Craig Iversen 1 1:07:03 1st Overall, 1st Veteran (40-49)

 

Trail Running Skills, 9am Sunday 9 February 2025

Bethunes Gully, Cluny Street (off Norwood Street), Normanby, Dunedin

Trail pros Chris Bisley and Margie Campbell took participants through a short session on the proper use of running poles as well as running downhill with confidence. 

The Leith Trail Running Skills clinic, in Bethunes Gully and Mt Cargill, even while raining, was well attended. This Clinic was expertly led by Chris Bisley and Margie Campbell. Thank you both and Lydia Pattillo for initiating, advertising and leading the idea. Measuring Teaching performance can be found in students’ writing. Full marks to Chris and Margie Here!

Calan McDermott, focuses on the moment, integrates and reflects on his Learning, is aware of the feeling and sounds slipping through these words, environment and actions, and is building confidence for the future.

Here he writes about the transformation from the Leith Skills Workshop into the post event Mt Cargill Climb/Descent run:

Today I learnt about downhills and the pole

In climbs the latter plays a very big role

Correct pole height and holds, techniques and trust

Leads to haste and no energy waste.

The climb itself was soggy and cold

Hardly complaint, stops it from getting old

Just had to remember what I was told

Descending downwards was fast yet frugal

“Let Gravity guide you” was a downhill tip

And to scan ahead, no need for a slip

All in all, quite the lovely trip

With new advice I can now equip

For the Three Peaks Race, so this event I’m glad I did not skip!

 

Round the Mountain, Sunday 2 February 2025

Outram, New Zealand

Description of this fun event:

A farm track circumnavigation of the Maungatua Range. A 27km opportunity for a training run or day out in the hills for cross country athletes. A charity fundraiser by Taieri Rotary Club

For full details of the event and associated events >> Round the Mountain

Fantastic outing for a bunch of the Leith Lasses today over the Maungatua range. Thanks to the Rotary Club for putting on such a great event!

 

The Otipua Challenge, Saturday, 25 January 2025 to Sunday, 26 January 2025

Redruth Park, 24 Collins Street, Timaru

Event Website >> The Otipua Challenge 

Facebook Page >> The Otipua Challenge Facebook Page

Event description:

is a time-limited trail run on a 6km course around the Otipua Wetlands in Timaru.Based from Redruth Park, run, walk or crawl as many times as you can within 6, 12 or 24 hour time limit.The course is mostly smooth and flat with a little hill in the middle. Enter solo, or in a relay team of 2-4 runners (one runner at a time on course). Distances/Events 6 Hour, 12 Hour, 24 Hour. 

Full results will be out in a few days as per organiser so we will update this report then.

Leith and friends took part in this event with Leith’s John Bayne once again excelling.  

12-hour
1st John Bayne completed 20×6.3km Laps +final lap of 6.275km = 132.275km

24-hour
1st OW 24hr Donna Tumaru 21 laps = 131km  Personal Best

6hr
Andy Smith 50km

John Bayne writes….

“Felt pretty good overall. Sat on 60 year old world 24hr record pace (142km) though to halfway. The course has some slow, soft gravel sections, footbridges and small hills where the pace fell off a bit. I was struggling to maintain lap times at 7 to 8 hrs so backed off slightly so not to cook myself. Ran 2 km further than I did in Canberra (2024 AU 24hr Champs), on the track, so pleased with that.”

Andy Smith writes….

“It was a lovely flat course around the Otipua wetlands, very runnable. Awesome birdlife as well. Paul (Race Director) put on a great event with a really good supportive atmosphere. Would recommend it.”

Donna Tumaru writes….

“The weather was all over the place, the last bit was so wet, windy that they cancelled the prizegiving. John Bayne …went like a bat out of hell from start to finish. He’s amazing. Two from Leith and three from Dunedin. My body is good just bad chaffing from being in wet clothes for so long. I got a 131 km PB, the furthest I have ever done before…the most recently, the 100km at Naseby. “

 

 

GLENHAM TRAINWRECK TRAIL, Saturday 18th January 2025

Glenham, Southland

Visit the Event Website for the full set of results >> Glenham Trainwreck Trail

The keen Leith athletes and friends did not take too much time getting into the 2025 competitive trail season.  We had a number of athletes competing over the various distances on offer

21km
2nd overall KIMBERLEY IVERSON (Leith) in 1:37:02 placed 1st in Female Category
3rd overall MEL AITKEN (Leith) in 1:37:15 placed 2nd in Female Category

15km
15th LYNNE KERR (Caversham Harriers) in 2:41:46 placed 7th in the Female Category

10km
25th overall STEPHEN SPRINGTHORPE (Leith) in 1:17:25 placed 8th in the Male Category
27th overall JOCELYN SPRINGTHORPE (Leith) in 1:22:46 Personal Best and placed 19th in the Female Category

Caversham’s Lynne Kerr tells of her experience of the tough 15km 

This was one of the most picturesque and tough events I have done so far… not only was it brutally hot on the day with no shade except for going through the Glenham train tunnel but the hills seemed endless, especially the last one up to the finish line. The course for the 15km event, which I completed, was well signed and marked so no chance of getting lost on the rolling hills of Southland. Underfoot changed from shingle road and tracks to mown paddocks including much thistle. A bit of mud and some cooling water running through the tunnel was welcome relief from the blazing sun, definitely a time to enjoy wet feet. All mountain-biking and walk/run events converged onto the same course so even though this slow runner was well behind there was always someone else about to exchange encouragement with. Marshals and water stations were well placed.The set up was well organised and the welcome and the prize giving were amazingly friendly as you would expect from a rural community. It’s not every event you come away with a cattle ear-tag on a ribbon as a memento of an event completed.
One Leith singlet was in evidence – young Kimberley Iverson came in marginally in front of Mel Aitken in second and third places for the 21km event.
I was personally very grateful to my running friends who supported me during a tough time after the run and the organisers and first-responders were exceptional in their care and follow-up. Definitely a run to do again next year. Just hoping the proposed Contact wind farm does not go ahead to spoil the stunning scenery.