We’re excited to announce that entries have just opened for the legendary Macpac Motatapu for 2018. After last year’s success, we’re looking forward to seeing the registrations flowing in, and we’ll be here every step of the way to help you get geared up and ready for the big event! Read on to see why you should enter now!
If this event isn’t on your bucket list yet, you’re probably in the minority – the Macpac Motatapu is becoming known as the event for competitors of all abilities, offering a range of exciting races and challenges.
Set in the stunning Wanaka/Queenstown high country, and famous for its relaxed Southern vibe, this annual event is held in one of the most stunning parts of New Zealand. Comprised of five events that weave through beautiful southern landscapes, competitors are treated to incredible views as they challenge themselves to push on to the finish line.
Close to 3,500 competitors lined up at the 2017 event, with even more supporters and locals making their way down to the finish area at Wilcox Green in Arrowtown.
For the full experience, our Macpac team made their way around all the start lines for the day – starting at 4am to get to the Ultra Run start at Glendhu Bay. Even in complete darkness and cold conditions, the morale of athletes and supporters was high, marking a great start to an unforgettable event. The rest of the day passed in a blur, punctuated by announcements of competitors crossing the finish line, and fuelled by food and beverages stands from local business owners. With announcers making their best effort to individually call out every single competitor across the line, the close-knit Southern community of the event truly came across.
Our first Macpac Pop-up Shop opened at the Athlete’s Village on Wilcox Green, just in time for registrations taking place on the Friday afternoon – there’s always something you’ll find missing from your race pack, and you can count on us to have your essential gear. We thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to chat with competitors about their experiences in the race, as well as supporters who expressed their pride for their friends and family members taking part in the event. 2017 also saw the introduction of official Macpac Motatapu merchandise – the range will be back for 2018, with the previous year’s styles making a comeback in a limited run, and new colours making their debut.
Competitors in the Mountain Bike event
The true highlight of the day had to have been around 8pm – the event had long wrapped up, local businesses packed up, and the crowds gone home for a well-earned rest. The Macpac team had just locked up and sat down for a slice of pizza with the Motatapu crew, when a call came over the radio that two competitors were approaching the finish line.
Having out-raced the truck picking up Ultra Run stragglers past the cut-off times, two men were absolutely determined to finish the toughest race of the event. Racing since 6am, their exhaustion was evident – but cheered on by the remaining crew at Wilcox Green, the delight and energy they exuded upon crossing that finish line couldn’t have summed up the atmosphere of the event any better.
So… Which start line will we be seeing you at in March 2018? Enter now!
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