$7000 Prize Money Up For Grabs
With only 6 weeks left to go, organisers of MCL Construction TRIPLE PEAKS are gearing up for the 32nd annual event with a raft of new features and drawcards for the keen competitor.
Being held on Saturday 7 March, this iconic Hawke’s Bay event is one of New Zealand's longest running sporting challenges. Organisers Emma Buttle and Richard Mills, from Bennelong Mountain Bike Club, are in their third year of managing Triple Peaks.
‘’There are categories that suit everyone, covering all levels of fitness and ability. Triple Peaks offers the perfect challenge for anyone who wants to begin the new decade with a rewarding and fun event,’’ comments Emma Buttle. ‘’It’s a great goal.’’
‘’With the One Peak Explorer option (18 kms), as well as Team relay options, newcomers to MCL Construction TRIPLE PEAKS do have ‘beginner’ categories to choose from, so they aren’t thrown in the deep end and can still enjoy the vibe of the event’’, says Ms Buttle.
However with the $7000 prize money ‘carrot’, organisers are anticipating a surge of elite athletes entering the event. Already several high profile runners and mountain bikers have signed up for a chance to win the big bucks.
‘’The racing at the pointy end of the field will be exciting. The top three male and female solo runners and mountain bikers will each receive a healthy cheque, thanks to some wonderful community minded sponsors. First place will receive $1000, second place $500 and third place $250,’’ comments Ms. Buttle. ‘’We are expecting some fast times this year!’’
Local companies Firth Industries, Strata Group, Lattey Group and Patton Engineering put their hand up to support the $7000 prize money. ‘’This is an incredibly generous contribution to the event, and we are very grateful for their support,’’ adds Ms. Buttle.
‘’However we must thank MCL for organising the prize money on our behalf. The team at MCL did all the hard work for us, and this is simply a reflection of the great relationships they have with other businesses around Hawke’s Bay.’’
Now in their third year of being naming rights sponsor, the staff from MCL Construction will once again have a visible presence on event day.
“We encourage our crew to get involved. To give it a go, and to set themselves an achievable challenge. A number of our staff (and their families) will enter as competitors, and many will also volunteer throughout the day,” comments John Bower, Managing Director of MCL Construction.
Mr Bower says the event reflects their company philosophy and commitment to support the local community. “Our slogan, 'Construction Inspired by Life', complements the Triple Peaks brand – what better way to be inspired, than to conquer some of our toughest peaks! We often don't see our own backyard, and having this incredible opportunity to access private land, is a great way to see just how beautiful our slice of paradise really is.’’
Whilst Triple Peaks does attract both locals and out-of-towners, Mr. Bower also appreciates the potential opportunities and benefits that this event can bring to the region. “With recent growth in all aspects of Hawke's Bay, MCL Construction Triple Peaks has incredible scope for showcasing our province, businesses and attractions. We envisage that this event can only grow, and we pleased to be able to continue our support in to the future.”
MCL have confirmed their sponsorship for the next three years, which is welcome news for the team behind the event.
“The team at MCL Construction have really bent over backwards to help us in every aspect of the event. They are a well respected, steadfast and long-standing local company that has supported our community for many years. We are thrilled that MCL have confirmed their ongoing support for a further three years,” adds Ms. Buttle.
Fundraising is also an important aspect of the event. ‘’Proceeds from 2020 Triple Peaks are going to Te Mata Park,” comments Richard Mills. ‘’This year we are raising funds to buy native trees; we are aiming for 1000 trees – and so far, it’s looking like we’re on track to achieve that goal.’’
Competitors can run, walk or mountain bike the 55 kms course, either solo or in a team of 3 people. A One Peak Explorer category, through Chambers Farm and Te Mata Peak is also a popular option. Plus, a new 2 peak walking category has also been introduced this year. Participants will traverse private land on Mount Erin, Mount Kahuranaki and iconic Te Mata Peak. All entrants will receive a complimentary glass of GIANT beer (over 18 only) and a Finisher’s Medal.