Multisport: Classic back on five legs

The Earthwise Kaimai Classic is back after a one-year hiatus, with 70km of running, mountain biking, kayaking and road cycling from McLarens Falls Park to Te Puna awaiting participants on April 28.

The five-leg event has proven popular with elite and casual competitors alike, and is known for its friendly atmosphere and post-event celebrations.

Organiser Luke Garea said the event is also hosting the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions' Secondary School Multisport Championships.

"The secondary school champs will add to the excitement on the day and we'll definitely see some great young talent compete," said Garea.

"It's even inspired us to think about a Kaimai Kids event to get them started even younger.

"Mostly, we're just excited to be back.

"To offer a professionally run event that's big on fun without an over the top price tag."

The multisport event, open to teams and individuals, has a new sponsor in Earthwise and renewed supporting sponsorships.

"We needed to invest in the event to see growth and to make the event day experience even better but it was also important to us to keep the entry fees affordable.

"Working with Earthwise is a dream result," Garea said.

"Participants have loads of fun getting sweaty and muddy and can then clean up with Earthwise's great range of environmentally responsible home and body products."

The partnership with Earthwise is seen as a good fit by both parties.

"We could have aligned with any number of outdoor events, but were impressed with the organiser's commitment to environmental sustainability and believe these shared core values give the sponsorship integrity beyond a branding exercise," said Earthwise marketing manager Rachel Beattie.