Inaugural half-marathon through Fairlie basin a success
A half-marathon through the picturesque Fairlie basin has raised close to $21,000 for charity in its first year. The inaugural Mackenzie Half-Marathon attracted 355 runners and walkers to the Village Green in the heart of Fairlie on Saturday morning, a turnout which co-organiser John Shaw said meant the event was coming back next year. We had no idea how many would come out, but I had a big grin on my face by the time the races started. It was a bit chilly first thing. When we went down there, it was just above freezing then the sun broke out late morning. It was a good day for what it was. READ MORE: * Mackenzie race to be first event on the calendar * Christchurch dog marathon aims to distract from 'shocking' mental health issues Shaw said the event catered to all ages and abilities with participants able to choose between 21.1-kilometre, 10km, and 5.5km distances. The close to $21,000 raised through entry fees and a barbecue will benefit the Fairlie Lions, a charitable group putting money into community projects. The Lions were happy to get behind us and help with marshalling and things. Between 200 and 300 spectators filled the sidelines, Shaw said. Auckland runner Fabe Downs, 34, took the top spot in the half-marathon with a time of one hour, 19 minutes. Hamish Elliot, 25, was less than two minutes behind in second place while Ben Wreford, 35, came third. The idea for the event was sparked when Shaws wife, Yvonne, returned from a run through the Fairlie basin. She said it would be a great half-marathon course. Planning for the event got underway in June last year and was originally scheduled for Easter weekend, but the Covid-19 lockdown forced it to the middle of winter. There was a bit of a risk because we had no idea if there would be snow covering the course, or the river would be too high, Shaw said. But everybody was happy with the course and how it went. Most of them went with a smile on their face and a, See you next year. The event is set to return during Easter Weekend 2021.