Helpers line up for Tora challenge

HARD AT IT: James Elworthy (left) and Rupert Elworthy are part of a large group of volunteers making sure this weekend's inaugural Tora Coastal Challenge on the South Wairarapa coast is a success. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

More than 500 gourmet burgers will be made by parents and grandparents of pupils at Tuturumuri School this week to fuel the hundreds of competitors completing the inaugural Tora Coastal Challenge.

Event manager Rachael Fletcher says of the 850 participants in Saturday's running or walking challenge along the spectacular South Wairarapa coastline, over 500 have pre-ordered either a Mediterranean Burger or Classic Kiwi Venison Burger, meaning volunteers will be busy making aioli, chutney and patties; slicing onions and buttering buns.

"Since announcing the Tora Coastal Challenge the response from the community has been phenomenal," said Mrs Fletcher.

"Tuturumuri School has come on board to help with catering and because our gourmet burgers have been so popular we've had to put out a call out to all the parents, grandparents and friends of the school to help us keep up with demand. Their response has been just terrific."

Over 90 volunteers are offering their time to help put up signage, oversee the drink stations and clear the track. Martinborough Lions will oversee car parking duties on the day while several local farmers will be stationed at specific sites on their quad bikes to ensure the track remains clear from livestock.

"It is fantastic and we're thrilled that people are offering their skills and time to help us stage this event," said Mrs Fletcher. "It's really important to us that our guests experience genuine rural hospitality and are treated to a unique walking and running experience."

The Tora Coastal Challenge begins this Saturday at 7am and features a 6km or 18km run/walk or a 32km run/team relay run.

Mrs Fletcher said the most popular events are the 18km events, attracting almost 400 runners and walkers, while the 32km run has also received significant interest.

The event base, and start point for all event options is Stony Bay Lodge.

The challenge covers the Tora Coastal Walk and coincides with the walk's 20th anniversary.

Funds raised from the event will benefit the Martinborough Community Centre.

See www.toracoastalwalk.co.nz.