Competitors renew friendly rivalries

Games veterans Paeroa's Martin Thorpe and Motueka's Bevan Cook take shelter after the walk.

RAIN? Nah, just nature-provided hydration for the morning's long march. Not a problem.
Despite steady rain along Taupo Quay yesterday morning there was still a strong walk-up of competitors for the 10km road run and walk.

About 75 striders departed at 9am from beside the Union Boat Club, followed by 66 runners an hour later.

Palmerston North's Andrew Davenport repeated his success of two years ago with victory in the run.

After a brief respite, the downpour returned shortly before race time but come the finish the walkers were taking it in their stride as they sheltered under a tree.

"We need some of this in Oamaru to break the drought," said Robert McIntosh, at his second games after being bit by the bug at Timaru last year.

"It certainly beats being in the heat," said Motueka's Bevan Cook, competing in the 70-year grade.

Having only taken up competitive walking at 62, Cook was at his third Masters and focuses his training on it every year.
"I love Wanganui, I could live here. We know the track, never gets easier.
"It's the camaraderie, and I like competing in the age groups where it's apples and apples, rather than trying to compete in the open.
"Your medal's always there, you can look back and say 'I've done it'."
In the 50-year grade, Paeroa's Martin Thorpe was at his sixth games.
"It's good fun, competing against each other. Always chasing the same people."
The 5km races will be held on Thursday, followed by the half marathon this coming Sunday.