Conder took over the mantle from schoolmate Geordie Beamish, who won Round the Bridges in 2013-14.
Collegiate director of sport Barry Touzel said the school treats the event as training for their own cross country championships at the end of the term.
"We make it an event of obligation for our kids and for our families."
"And our commitment to community events."
Last year's event was attended by 800 to 1000 people despite bad weather conditions, and raised $3100 in total for the charitable cause of Birthright Wanganui.
This year's 40th annual edition of the event will raise money for Plunket.
Registration begins at 8am, with the 1km Sport Whanganui Kids Course beginning at 8.55am.
The long course walkers set off at 9.10am, followed by the long course runners at 9.45am and the short course walkers five minutes later.
The short course runners begin at 10.10am.