She wouldn't be welcome in Christchurch but Masterton is happy to have tetraplegic athlete Catriona Williams leading the way in the first Wairapathon.
Entrants ranging from age 11 to 71 have already signed up to swim, run and bike the scenic course around Henley Lake next month.
''It's all about promoting the
Wairarapa, and getting people out and doing some exercise,'' Mrs Williams said.
She will compete on her hand-cycle in the triathlon, which was organised by her CatWalk Trust to raise money for spinal cord injury research.
After losing her mobility in a horse-riding accident eight years ago, Mrs Williams was surprised to discover how much she enjoyed riding the hand-cycle.
''I never liked riding a bike before,'' she said.
She will join six other physically challenged athletes to compete in the New York Marathon in November.
''We don't feel sorry for ourselves,'' she said.
''There are always challenges involved for everyone, and some things are easier to overcome than others.''
Closer to home, athletes such as Mrs Williams have struggled for equal treatment.
The Christchurch Marathon was criticised this year for excluding wheelchair entries, citing safety reasons.
Martin Tregoning, general manager of the Achilles Track Club NZ, is dedicated to getting people with disabilities involved in mainstream sporting events.
''When they participate in these events they're actually seen as able-bodied people,'' Mr Tregoning said.
''It's about recognising that they are human beings too and it's about breaking down the barriers.''
If the New York Marathon, which attracts about 36,000 entrants, could safely include disabled athletes then New Zealand cities could do the same, Mr Tregoning said.
''I think it stinks that Christchurch City Council has taken this stance when we're seen as one of the most PC countries in the world.''
Wairapathon, August 28, more info from www.catwalk.org.nz
