Athletics: Champ to race in Ohope Express

One of New Zealand's top marathon runners has confirmed she will enter a new running event in Ohope in preparation for the Rotorua Marathon.

Shireen Crumpton, the current New Zealand marathon champion, will race in the Ohope Express on April 19.

Crumpton, 43, has represented New Zealand in marathon running numerous times and has won the New Zealand women's marathon title four times.

The Ohope Express is a running and walking event with three distances to choose from - 5km, 10km and a half-marathon. It is described as a family-friendly event and will start at Maraetotara Reserve.

Crumpton holds down a fulltime job as a post-anaesthetic care nurse as well as maintaining a top running career. She has raised her 6-year-old son alone since her husband passed away from cancer five years ago.

"Representing New Zealand is a huge honour, but it can sometimes be tricky to organise leave and travel to attend the events," Crumpton said.

"I'm really looking forward to the Ohope Express though, the course is designed so that a personal best is highly likely, plus there's the added bonus of spending Easter weekend in such a beautiful location."

Entry to the 5km event is by gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to Diabetes and Exercise Sport Association NZ.

Event manager Mike van der Boom believes the event will appeal to a wide range of participants.

"The half-marathon course is certified, which means competitive athletes can have a go at achieving a recorded personal best. But the 5km and 10km events are fantastic New Year's resolution goals for those looking to improve their fitness in 2014," said van der Boom.

Early bird entry specials are available until February 1. Visit ohopeexpress.co.nz.