WHAT A WEEKEND

It's another big weekend for Opotiki.

Our premium multi sport event, the Motu Challenge is on this weekend, and there is even a very mini version for the kids. Training wheels allowed, especially as the children's age group is 2yrs - 14yrs.

Not for the feint of heart, this endurance event draws participants from far and wide. With 65km mountain bike, 17km run, 52km road cycle, 27km kyak, 8km road cycle and a 3km run, competitors face a gruelling task with an upside of being amongst some of the best scenery multisport has to offer.

This year there is a new event; the Scott Motu 160 cycle challenge, 65km mountain bike will be raced with the Motu Challenge competitors. Multisporters will then split off at Motu to complete their run, ride and paddle; while Motu 160 competitors will get straight onto their road bikes and cycle 90km back over Traffords Hill and down Waioeka gorge to Opotiki.

The mini Motu kidliwinks only have to jog, bike, jog and every child competitor receives a medal. They are the future of multisport so we like to start them young.

Locals like to get out and support competitors, and volunteers galore ensure a smooth running event.

The weather forecast is not brilliant, but I am sure those competing will appreciate cooler temperatures. There are some challengers who have been regular visitors to the town doing trial runs in anticipation of the big action on Saturday.

Of course Sunday is a day of rest and recovery. Usually, the town's cafes' are packed to the gunnels with people brunching, nursing their weary bodies, debriefing and contemplating whether to go through it all again next year.

Sunday is also Bathurst day. Die hard petrol heads will ensure premium television space is available, wear silly hats, dream of being there next year, and have plenty of liquid refreshment handy.

But unlike Bathhurst, we have greenery, rivers, rugged tracks and the best mountain bike section of any race (in NZ admittedly).

That's Opotiki's contribution to multisport.