Thousands Set to Take Over Wellington’s Waterfront on Sunday

Thousands Set to Take Over Wellington’s Waterfront on Sunday

A field of 14,000 participants will be gathering at Frank Kitts Park on Sunday morning as they prepare to take part in Cigna Round the Bays 2016, Wellington’s largest community sporting event.

Participants can enter in one of four categories: the 6.5km Fun Run/Walk, 6.5km Buggy Walk, Bluebridge 10km or the Cigna Achilles Half Marathon, all of which make their way around Wellington’s inner city harbour to finish at the Kilbirnie Park festival.

The Cigna Achilles Half Marathon field is set to have some fast competition as Katie Kemp, the current New Zealand Marathon champion, will be taking part for the fourth consecutive year. “I am always looking to improve.” says Kemp, “So the aim will be to beat my time from last year”.

The Wellington-based mother of three has used the Wellington event to keep herself motivated over the summer months and is looking forward to running on the picturesque course. “The loop around the bays is a beautiful part of our city, it’s unique to be able to run freely on the Oriental Bay streets and hopefully the sun is shining with just a gentle breeze!” says Katie.

Cigna Round the Bays aims to cater for the serious runners while also providing a fun family experience. Katie’s eldest daughter, Lucy, will be taking part in the 6.5km event alongside her parents for the first time, while her husband, Jimmy, along with daughters Abbey and Phoebe will be cheering them on at the finish line. “Round the Bays has a fantastic atmosphere. I really enjoy seeing so many people out there challenging themselves in the different events and getting together to celebrate their achievements” adds Katie.

Cigna Round the Bays will take place this Sunday, 21 February, with the first event leaving Frank Kitts Park at 7.45am. Road closures will be in place throughout the morning starting from 6am, see www.cignaroundthebays.co.nz for further details.

ENDS

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