Another year, another successful Country2Coast for walkers, runners and cyclists

Around 650 people enjoyed one of four Country2Coast events yesterday, like the 15km fun run/walk from Napier. Photo / Warren Buckland

Despite a spot of rain, hundreds enjoyed a morning walking, running, or cycling along Hawke's Bay's trails for the Country2Coast at the weekend.

Held annually since 2011, this year the event drew about 650 keen walkers, joggers and serious runners from throughout the region and further afield, who yesterday converged at Clive's Farndon Park from three directions: Napier, Haumoana and Puketapu.

The event makes use of the rotary pathway network by offering four separate events - an 8km or 15km walk or run, a 20km bike ride, or a more challenging 21.1km half-marathon run.

There was a range of participants - from ones dressed in costume, some who pushed strollers, or walked their dogs.

A group from the Army did the 15km event while carrying 20kg packs.

At the finish line competitors, spectators and supporters enjoyed a "festival atmosphere" with music, entertainment and refreshments.

Among them was veteran Country2Coast participant James Dine - who will be 90 in July.

This was Mr Dine's fifth year participating in the event, which he said he started doing in 2012 to lose weight and keep active.

Yesterday the Taradale Rotary member did the 8km walk, in one hour and 46 minutes - a new record for him.

"I enjoyed it, it's a challenge each time, but I always enjoy it," he said.

While walking is his favourite exercise, Mr Dine said he kept coming back to the event "for the charity side of it" - every year he also participates in the other charity walks, the Mitre MegaWalk, and the Napier City Pak'nSave Half Marathon/10km.

Yesterday Event director Kevin Longman said he was pleased with how the day had gone.

"It was brilliant, really fantastic. I've had great feedback from people so far."

He said the atmosphere at the finish line had been buzzing, with food outlets being popular with the athletes.

Participant numbers were down compared to last year, which Mr Longman thought was due to less than ideal weather conditions being forecast.

However, while there was a smattering of rain in the morning, "the weather was kind enough to us that hardly anybody got wet".

Unfortunately he said one cyclist was taken to hospital, after they fell from their bike and broke their collarbone.

The results for the event were not available yesterday.

Last year's Country2Coast proceeds of $7500 were distributed by the Havelock North Rotary Club to community organisations.

It has not yet been decided which community organisations will receive funds this year.