A 60km Ultramarathon in memory of Steve Neary
There’s nothing quite so wonderful as that friend who glows, and who can’t help but share that glow with everyone else. Steve Neary was that friend. Even if you never managed to catch him on the trails (because boy was he fast!), many of you from the trail running community would have known of Steve and his relentless passion for running in New Zealand’s native bush – and for welcoming others to the trails.
On 7th November, 2016 we lost Steve. This event was created and happened for the first time in 2021 (which because 2022 because of Covid) to mark 5 years since Steve’s death. It was the perfect way to celebrate Steve’s life and loves: trail running, Kokako (and all the NZ birds, Tui’s and Kereru were his other favorites), New Zealand’s native bush, family, friends, and fun.
The Hunua Ranges were Steve's 'backyard', and his favourite place to run. We can’t think of a better way to honour his memory than by coming together and testing ourselves over the hardest and most beautiful tracks the Hunuas have to offer – and following it up with the kind of old-fashioned fun and camaraderie he loved.
Make no mistake – this event is tough, but in a friendly sort of way... much like our Steve
The plan was always to do this event once, as a memorial event to Steve. However, after that first year we knew we were onto something pretty special here & those that did that inaugural event back in 2022 also agreed - this event was too good not to do again. And although the focus of the event has shifted and new events (the Marathon and 22km courses) have been added, we of course still remember Steve and where this event started.
