Bay Times backs new look City to Surf

The iconic City to Surf is back for another year but with a brand new look.
The 12km event for runners and walkers has been taken over by Event Promotions and has the backing of the Bay of Plenty Times to get Tauranga ready for summer.
The event, on Sunday September 26, has a brand new starting point and time along with a new finish. It also features a variety of terrain including road, track and beach.
It's got the city buzzing, including Bay of Plenty Times editor Scott Inglis.
The run division is now called the Bay of Plenty Times Run and is accompanied by the Bay News Walk.
"It's a great opportunity for everyone in Tauranga to throw off the winter layers and get fit for summer," Mr Inglis said.
"We're really excited to be involved and hope our readers will be on the start line with us."
The event starts at 10am from the Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club at Sulphur Point. Runners and walkers will follow the route over the new Harbour Bridge, down Totara St, through Coronation Park and along Pilot Bay to the Mount base track.
From the end of the track by the surf club they will then run or walk a further 300m on the beach to the finish.
It is truly a city to surf event and one that Event Promotions event director Murray Fleming can see growing just as the city is.
"You just have to look at Sydney and how popular their city to surf event is," Mr Fleming said.
"It's a run that thousands of people do, not for the distance but for the point to point nature of the course. We want to hold an event that is an achievable distance for many, whether you choose to run as fast as you can, or walk with a group of friends."
To make the logistics easier for entrants there is a shuttle bus service running from Mount Drury to the race start. This bus must be pre-booked to make sure you have a seat.
Gear bags can be left at the start and will be transported by Mainfreight to the finish.
There will also be plenty of entertainment at the finish and prize-giving will be held at the Mount Drury amphitheatre.
Entries are already open and Mr Fleming said they expected to welcome 2000 people to the finish. Entries cost $35 and can be placed online at www.eventpromotions.co.nz or pick up an entry form from Smiths Sports Shoes on Elizabeth St.