Revised race rules will allow 5-person teams and duo kayaks

INAUGURAL WINNER: Sam Goodall of Whangaparaoa won last year. PHOTO/FILE A-060414WCRCMOUNTAINS03

Ohakune and Wanganui's iconic Mountain to Sea (M2C) race is all set for its sophomore event in March 2015.

After the foot, kayak and bike race was resurrected for the first time in 20 years in April 2014, next year's event will be opened up further to include a five-person format along with individual and 2-4 person team racing.

Another change will be the supplying of two-person kayaks, at a cost of $60, so more than one member of each team can compete on that leg.

"We reviewed all the feedback from 2014 and the team did discuss splitting the kayak leg into two sections or shortening the course - unfortunately neither option was feasible due to the logistics involved," said the M2C email sent on behalf of race director Mark Stoneman.

"The main issue being the size and access limitations at the Mangapurua landing - confirmed by the Department of Conservation.

"However, if taking on the 90km paddle as a solo is not for you, then you just need to find a second kayaker, jump in a double and enter as a two-person team."

The event will use the new 30kg Adventure Racing Duo (AR Duo) craft from Barracuda Kayaks, which is a refresh of the company's popular Duo Kayak.

"We have used the same reliable and efficient hull shape as the Duo, but have streamlined the deck layout to better suit all paddlers."

M2C has given a makeover to their website - www.m2c.kiwi.nz - which includes footage of last year's event, which was won by Whangaparaoa's Sam Goodall.

Wanganui multisporters Jason Page and Brian Scott won the two-person team event.

Yesterday evening the M2C cycle trail official partner programme was launched at the Matterhorn Restaurant in Ohakune, with former Olympic Games gold medal cyclist Sarah Ulmer acting as the guest speaker.

The 2015 race will be held on March 27-29, 2015, and entries will be open soon.

More information will be available at https://www.facebook.com/pages/M2C-Mountains-to-Sea-Multisport-Race/171941986302883