Egmont half marathon in memory of keen runner

Cape Egmont Half Marathon organiser Nicky Smith.

Those participating in the Cape Egmont Half Marathon next month run in memory of a humble man.

New Plymouth mother Nicky Smith is behind the event on July 15 to honour her friend Andrew Smith who died of a brain tumour in 2016.

The event will also raise money for the Taranaki Cancer Society.

Nicky says Andrew was a great bloke who loved running in events and is fondly remembered by many people.

He was a much-loved member of the New Plymouth Walkers and Joggers Group as well as the Energy City Harriers.

"He was just a quiet humble fellow and genuine great bloke."

Nicky joined the Harriers after moving to Taranaki from Auckland and says Andrew was among the first to make her feel welcome.

She says Andrew was a real trooper, having gone through several surgeries to remove tumours.

Throughout this he remained positive and even competed in races after major surgeries. The cancer came back in 2016 and Andrew was told it could not be operated on.

"For me it's about doing something for people who are going through a cancer battle."

Walkers and runners can enter the 21km event by themselves or in a team of two. Starting in Okato on Old South Road near the swing bridge, competitors will then head to Oxford Road, along Saunders, Wiremu and Newall roads and then onto Bayley Road to finish at the lighthouse .

Nicky, who has been organising the event along with a wider committee, says money raised will go towards something practical for the Cancer Society — perhaps some gear to help rehabilitate cancer patients.

She is looking forward to the day, which will bring back a lot of great memories .
"It will be a great event. Andrew would have loved it."

To enter go to www.capeegmonthalf.com/