Ultra event organiser to run his own race

CHANGE: Paul Charteris (left) and Tim Day are getting ready for the Tarawera ultramarathon. PHOTO/BEN FRASER A-130314BF1

The founder of the Tarawera Ultramarathon will step down as race director next year to compete in the popular event.

Race founder Paul Charteris has worked behind the scenes during the past six editions of the Tarawera Ultramarathon, organising and looking after runners.

Next year, he will pull on his running shoes and take part in the 100km race, handing over the race director duties to Tim Day.

"I'm going to run the race myself for the first time in seven years. I am going to be able to compete in my own event," he said.

"I'm going to be able to see the race from the inside, so Tim will co-ordinate and look after all the runners."

Charteris said he would still be involved as normal, organising the ultramarathon in the lead-up to the day of the event.

"I will be involved all the way up until about 6.30am on race day morning and then ... join the other 999 runners at the start line."

He said he had already started training for the 100km race next February and was looking forward to it.

New race director Day was part of the organising team this year and Charteris said he would do a great job.

The Tarawera Ultramarathon is part of the Ultra Trail World Tour.