Showdown at the Routeburn Classic
Press Release / 22.04.2008
Competitor interest in the 38km Routeburn Classic alpine adventure run is the highest yet, and this year’s field is the most eclectic that organisers have seen since its inception; testament to its broad appeal.Top multisporter Richard Ussher has confirmed his return to defend his title of fastest ever Classic runner, set in 2001 when he recorded a 2.51.57 finish. This will be his fourth time competing in the Classic.
Queenstown resident Jim Hawkridge, 2007 winner with a time of 2.58.53sec, is also signed up to race and is relishing the chance to take on Ussher, who was unable to compete in 2007.
“Richard is one of the world’s top mountain runners, so to get close to his time is really cool. It’s great that he’s taking part because that will really lift everyone’s game, I think.
“My training is going well, I’m getting faster and I know what I need to do to break the three hour barrier down even further. Conditions on the day play a big part, but I know I can be faster on the flats, speed up some of the climbs and hopefully knock a few minutes off my best time,†said Hawkridge.
Craig Barrett, former Olympic 50km walker is heralded as this year’s ‘dark horse’, having competed at Olympic and Commonwealth level and amassed 32 national senior titles in the process. Craig said that although he’s retired from competing at an international level, he likes to stay fit and is looking forward to the race.
“My wife’s involved in tramping and some of her friends mentioned the race. I liked the sound of the track and straight away I was keen to sign up. I’ve recently completed the Triple Peaks in Hawke’s Bay as part of a team and I’m running four times a week, so I’m in good condition.
“I’m not looking to break any records, just get out there, have fun and enjoy the run,†said Barrett.
Premier international endurance racer Elina Ussher (née Elina Maki-Rautila) returns to the race after a one year absence. In the 2006 Classic she set a new women’s record of 3.30.58.
