The MLT Moonshine Trail might be an ideal warm-up for the Motatapu, but it also presents its own challenge – and it is one that organisers are hoping plenty of people will take up next year.
Entries for one of Southland's most popular mountain bike and off-road run events – scheduled for February 18, 2012 – open on Friday (August 19) and organisers are urging people to sign up early to take advantage of the early-bird pricing. Competitors who enter on Friday will go in the draw to win a night's accommodation at the Heartland Hotel Croydon in Gore for the night before the event.
With mountain bike options of 35km and 40km and off-road run distances of 15km and 5km, all set within the Hokonui Hills near Gore, the MLT Moonshine Trail presents something for everyone – but it's not for the faint hearted. The routes all include challenging climbs and tough terrain whether you're on two wheels or two feet.
The run options have changed for next year, with a tough 15km course and a new addition – a 5km run/walk – also on offer. Sport Southland event manager Matt Sillars said the changes were mainly logistical and eliminated the need for buses to the start line. He was confident the addition of a 5km event would ensure there was something for competitors of all abilities.
"The 15km run is a tough one and it features plenty of climbs – with Ships Cone back in the course, it's certainly a challenge," he said.
"The 5km event is also tough, it's an undulating run through the bush around the Whiskey Creek Trail and by opening it up with options to run or walk it we're hoping plenty of people will get involved. There is a great mix of options for both the mountain bike and the run next year and it will again feature the popular post-event party atmosphere at Dolamore Park."
"The MLT Moonshine Trail is a great warm up for the Motatapu and the race options, the terrain and the timing of the event all reflect that. But if you're just looking for a challenge, then there's certainly something there for you too – just take your pick and get entered."
As the sixth year of this event, five year medals will be available to those who qualify in 2012.
Entries can be made online at www.moonshinetrail.co.nz.
