City to Surf: Ruthe first across finish line

Tauranga's Ben Ruthe was a late entry into this year's City to Surf event but his finish was anything but - the accomplished runner finished first and led the way for his sister-in-law to also place in the women's category.
Mr Ruthe broke out from more than 2000 people running and walking 12km at yesterday's annual event, which weaved across the harbour bridge and around Pilot Bay to finish on the Mount main beach. He finished in 40 minutes.
Mr Ruthe had not entered the challenge, which is sponsored by the Bay of Plenty Times, until yesterday morning.
However, he is no stranger to the City to Surf winner's podium, having won the challenge two years ago.
Last year, Mr Ruthe's wife Jess won the women's section while brother-in-law Gareth Hyett won the men's event.
Mr Ruthe said he was glad to have taken part in the City to Surf.
"It's amazing, the amount of people and the great vibes at the start."
He will now focus on the Auckland Marathon, another race his wife took part in last year.
Mrs Ruthe said while the family was athletic, they generally did not run together "because of the kids".
Babysitting duties and injury meant she was unable to compete in this year's City to Surf but she and 18-month-old Sam cheered on her husband, who was joined by sister-in-law Emma Hyett in the event. Mrs Hyett was the third woman across the finish line.
Meanwhile two Waikato women, aged 36 and 23, were taken to Tauranga Hospital for over-exertion at the City 2 Surf event. They were not seriously hurt and were taken to hospital as a precautionary measure.
For full results, see: www.citytosurf.co.nz
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