Welcome to the Northern Crossing
Top Energy Ltd
BP Kerikeri
Copthorne Hotels and Resorts Bay of Islands and Hokianga
Craigs Investment Partners
Downer EDi Works
Far North District Council
Fullers Great Sights BoI
Kiwivelo - Bike Shop
Hunter Cycles
More FM
New World Kerikeri
Successful new course, good numbers and a weather miracle for 2013
The 2013 Top Energy Northern Crossing and Missionary Trail were real successes and 'someone' provided a weather miracle for competitors and supporters to enjoy!
After some torrential rain, and a very bleak Friday, Saturday 18 May 2013 dawned clear and the weather improved as the day went on. Competitors riding from the Hokianga or Okaihau faced nothing worse than a light shower or two, while the prize-giving at the Pear Tree Restaurant enjoyed a sunny, warm afternoon.
Comment on both new courses and event organisation have been favourable, while the party atmosphere of prize-giving reflected a large field of very satisfied and happy competitors.
This is our fourth year and the events attracted a record field of 235 entrants, 86 drawn to the new middle distance Missionary Trail event.
Although we had to sacrifice the beautiful Hokianga harbour paddle for reliablity, the new Kerikeri Inlet courses worked well and can be fine tuned. An event ending with a kayak leg is unique and requires special training consideration.
Owen Smith, event coordinator of the Rotary Club of Kerikeri, said, "the Missionary Trail has broadened the scope of the event and made it more attractive to locals."
He said, "We have a core group of top-flight athletes who love the challenge of the coast-to-coast Northern Crossing but we wanted to make the event a little more do-able for the average Northlander and, with the Missionary Trail, I think we’ve achieved this."
A comment from a happy entrant says it all:
"As I neared the end of the 13 km kayak leg it was great to hear the finish line before I could see it. As I paddled around the bend under Kororipo Pa the music was rocking out of the Pear Tree Restaurant and then the cheering crowd at the basin helped me forget my arms of lead and it was an easy run up to the finish line. Another great Crossing for me, it really felt like a welcome with the noise, the atmosphere and the unique Top Energy medal."
Both events will raise approximately $10,000 for community projects across the mid-north with an emphasis on youth. The Northern Crossing is the brainchild of the Rotary Club of Kerikeri and is supported by local electricity generator and lines network operator Top Energy and other sponsors.
We thank all our entrants and trust you enjoyed the challenge and the miraculous weather window! We hope to see you again next year.
Martin Macpherson
The Rotary Club of Kerikeri
A Tribute to Jock Hodgson, the man who started it all »
