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7th October 2009

Over 100 competitors were not deterred by the wild weather and wacky new course features this Sunday when one of the most exciting Peak to Pub races took place at Mt Hutt.
 
Competitors were hit by four different seasons over the day including blizzard like conditions as they skied, biked, ran and swam their way from Mt.Hutt to Methvens iconic Blue Pub.
 
New features to this years event included the water crossing thought up by NZs legendary multi sport athlete Steve Gurney where competitors had to decide if it was worth plunging into frigid water to gain the a minute or twos advantage.
 
The weather definitely added to the excitement and the water crossing was incredible to watch - the water was freezing! said Event Organizer Paul Marks. It added such a fun element to the event this year and will be seen again in the future.
 
To the event organizers and spectators delight, 40% of the field decided to hit the water instead of taking the dodgy purpose-built log bridge further up stream.
 
Jos Hoetjes took the overall Mens title for the 2nd time with a blistering time of 1 hour and 7.21 min.
 
Rebecca Rae took a commanding lead in the Womens field with a time of 1 hour 19.05.  Both leaders stepped up and took the plunge.
 
On the Team side of the event, Mens team winners were the Christchurch Boys High School, and Womens Team winners were the BBC and the mixed team was won by the IRocks.
 
Stay tuned to www.peaktopub.co.nz for full results, photos and information on next years event.

Ski to bike at Mt Hutt                                                       image:Tetsuro Mitomo

Jos Hoetjes, mens winner                                                        image:Tetsuro Mitomo