EASTLAND DUATHALON

The A M P 100Km Duathlon from Gisborne to Te Puia Springs attracted national champions as well as serious recreational sportspeople. The 1st leg was to Tatatapouri where the runners took to their bikes. Team competitors changed at Tolaga Bay and from Tokomaru Bay all competitors (team or individual) reverted to running the last leg up "Heartbreak Hill" to the finish at Oil Springs Hotel, Te Puia.

The Individuals who would run, bike and run the whole 100km started from the A M P Building in Gladstone Road at 7-30am.

The 1st leg of the Teams event started at 8am. it was a case of standing at the line and hoping for a clear road ahead.

Their destination was Tatapouri.

Charlie Savage at the Okitu Store.

Scott Pitkethley at Tatapouri.

Driving up to Te Puia was very interesting as cars weaved past competitors and their back up crews. The mystery was who would you pass next. This is Fiona Veitch. All bike riders wore helmets. As Denis Hartley observed from his helicopter at an unfortunate accident on the Tolaga Hill "...the helmet smashed to smithereens. Imagine if he had not been wearing that helmet... "

Russell Smyth at Tolaga Bay.

A Junior Team in action at the Tolaga change. Michael Orchiston steps out of the team number so that Paula Drew can help Aaron Sheldrake put it on before starting the ride to Tokomaru Bay.