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The fight for second and third place in the One New Zealand GODZONE Pursuit is unfolding on the river.

Just minutes separate Team 52 Gizzy Gully Runners and Team 53 Ferg’s Aeros as they launched their packrafts onto the Wairau River this morning.

The river is pumping, but a stiff headwind will make for demanding progress, says One NZ GODZONE spokesperson Rob Nicholl.

“Both teams turned up in great shape and were eager to get on the water quickly to avoid being dark-zoned.”

Despite the pressure, team spirits remain high. Careful attention to hydration, short rest stops, and sleep strategies has kept both crews upbeat, and the “bacon butties at transition may also have helped,” Nicholl says.

In an echo of the slightly longer Pure event, both teams are chasing a youthful front-runner.

Team 55 Kaikoura Adventure is several hours ahead and expected to reach Butcher’s Flat campsite this afternoon before jumping on mountain bikes for 90 minutes on Wakamarina Rd making their way to Pelorus River to begin a pack raft to the head of Kenepuru Sound.

Members Max Groer, Finn Van Keulen, Henry Lovegrove and Isabelle Schwarzenbach represent the new face of adventure racers, and Nicholl is thrilled to see rising talent making its mark.

“The coaching and support from older legends of the sport is creating a pathway that’s great for adventure racing in the long run.”

GODZONE’s backing of Pursuit teams, including partnerships with Southland Tri 6+6, Coast to Coast, True West and Spring Challenge, continues to strengthen the sport nationwide.

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For more information, interview & imagery requests, contact:
Margo Berryman
One NZ GODZONE Media Manager
P:+64 21 246 3342
E:margo@qt.co.nz
www.godzoneadventure.com