"They say that each hill gets more and more difficult in the race. My legs certainly found that this was the case but the extra training really paid off.
"It was a very difficult course, with rough track and bush and running through rivers up to my knees but I felt strong throughout the race.
"Overall it was very enjoyable as along the way the course mixes in with the mountain bikers and it was such a beautiful day to be running."
Hundreds of people turned out to the event including Rotorua Trail Running Club president Mike Tennent who was cheering on all the athletes at the finish line.
"It was great to see Mike waiting at the end and it really helped in those last stages," said Crowley.
"Everyone at the club should be really proud as overall we had some excellent results."
A course record was set in the men's marathon as Whakatane's Sam Clark powered home in 2h 58m 10s.
Event organiser Mark Fordham said 700 participants took part, including 300 mountain bikers.
"What a great day and to have that record beaten was pretty special," he said.
"It is a very unique event as a whole because it is very isolated with the trail being in the middle of nowhere. But that is what makes it special for participants," he said.
"Athletes found themselves running, biking or walking through canyon valleys, muddy bush and freezing cold streams and that's part of the adventure."
Crowley is already back in training as she eyes up the 46km Double Rainbow Trail Run on June 11.
"I am really enjoying running right now so the Double Rainbow event is in the front of my mind," she said. "It is so tough as it is mainly up hill but I love the prospect of a challenge.
"I have only done the half distance in the past but now is the best time to push myself so if training goes well I'll be there on the start line."
- To see all results visit http://totalsport.racetiming.co.nz/competitions/1397.
