Cold fails to stop heartwarming support

The sun was shining for the 44th Lion Foundation Rotorua Marathon but everyone still felt the cold.

Saturday morning saw competitors lining up in a low 9C temperature to take part in one of the country's most celebrated marathons.

Runners and supporters alike braved the chilly conditions exacerbated by a cold wind.

On the roadside, spectators were bundled up in hats and scarves but it didn't stop them from cheering on friends and family.

It wasn't just a day in which runners had a sense of achievement. The supporters who lined the road and manned the water stations said they had an important role.

Western Heights High School students were at the halfway point and encouraged runners with their techno togas-themed water station. The students took part to raise money for Rotorua's Stage Challenge (performance competition). When the Daily Post caught up with them, music was coming from a teacher's car and along with giving out water, they were freely dishing out compliments and encouragement.

Teacher, Sonia Irwin said it was "so important" to keep the runners optimistic.

"We have a really enthusiastic bunch of kids this year. They know how important it is to support everyone."

For Lincoln Nicholls, from Palmerston North, the halfway point was a crucial drinks stop. Mr Nicholls was feeling the pain of pushing himself up the Hamurana hills and stopped to take some Panadol.

"The encouragement is great, it helps me to pick up the pace."

Other supporters in costumes were the support crew for runners from Hennessy's Irish Bar. Queenie Pedersen, Kay Schlegel, Maraea Oxley and Dudu Light were dressed in black and green and weren't just supporting their friends, but everyone else who passed by.

Mrs Pedersen said their support gave runners the "extra oomph" to keep going.

Jonathan Dodd and Ian Crowe, from Lake City Athletics, finished the marathon within minutes of each other. For Mr Dodd this was his first Rotorua Marathon while for Mr Crowe, it was his fifth. Both runners were upbeat about the race and the weather. "It wasn't too hot or too cold," Mr Dodd said.

The pair were happy with their times of 3:17 and 3:20 and said they would probably be back next year to give it another crack. Including the 5km and 10km fun runs and the walking competitors, 2513 people were at the start line. Including walkers, 1819 people started the 42km marathon and 1647 people finished. The winning runner Joe Piggin from Auckland finished running the marathon in 2:27:42. The last person to finish was Hemi Pewhairangi, a runner from Gisborne, in 7:52:21.