The women’s half marathon was won by Katherine Morgan (Auckland) in 1.23.48 with Whangarei runners Caris Teo 1.28.21 and Katie McVerry 1.28.44 second and third respectively. Morgan was a clear winner and looked very fresh after the run as she has successfully completed a number of marathons during the year which included a second placing in the Hawkes Bay Marathon.

However there was a tight finish for second place between McVerry and Teo with Teo managing to take the lead at the 20km mark to head off a fine run from McVerry.

Kerikeri’s Corrine Smith won the walking division in fine style covering the half marathon course in 2.04.39 with last year’s winner Shirley Dryden also from Kerikeri finishing second in 2.13.04 with Phillippa Lumsden-Nicholl (Wellsford) in 2.31.06 third.

The men’s division was won by Alan Connolly (Whangarei) in 2.17.26 with John Wesling (Auckland) 2.20.28 and Alan Sim (Whangamata) close behind 2.36.00.

There were a record number of racers in the road racing chairs division with Losi Harford (Auckland) taking the title in 1.20.00. Maia Amai (Auckland) and Cameron Leslie (Glenbervie) who finished second and third used their rugby chairs to cover the half marathon distance. Leslie looked very fresh at the end however had to battle over the last 250 metres which was on grass at the Kerikeri Domain.

Competitors were full of praise for the entertainment along the way as well as the water stations every three kilometres that were manned by the Rapid Relief team. The competitors received a rousing welcome as they entered the Kerikeri Township with the drummers putting on fine display which spurred them on for the last kilometre as they neared the finish line. On reaching the Kerikeri Domain the band Five Kay were performing from the Toll stage, while the ASB Zone offered refreshments and massage for their customers.

Many of the participants commented on the wonderful welcome they received by the crowds gathered at the Domain where they were presented with their medal from the team from ASB after they crossed the finish line.

Sport Northland’s Events Team Leader Azelia Parkinson said it was great to have so many people out supporting the runners, walkers and road racing competitors along the way.

“Sport Northland appreciates the assistance received from all the wonderful sponsors, volunteers and the community who pull together to make this such a great event”, she said.

Sport Northland is yet to confirm the date for next year’s ASB Kerikeri Half Marathon but at this stage is planned for Saturday 18 November.

Full results can be found at Click here