Kathmandu to help school teams race the Coast to Coast

16 August, 2016

Kathmandu to help school teams race to the Coast to Coast start line

Nominations for young, aspiring athletes now open

Kathmandu is encouraging high schools and sports clubs nationwide to nominate a three-person team for the chance to receive the ultimate package for New Zealand’s leading multi-sport event - the 2017 Kathmandu Coast to Coast.

A first in the race’s 33-year history, the company has established the Kathmandu Coast to Coast Academy to provide selected groups and individuals with resources and mentoring they need to experience New Zealand’s most iconic multi-sport event.

Kathmandu will specifically focus on the schools section to support ambitious young athletes with a range of packages offering support from training right through to the race days.

The winning team will receive the School’s Summit Academy Package, including an exclusive coaching session with nine-time Kathmandu Coast to Coast winner Steve Gurney, a $3,000 cash prize to help with race expenses, Kathmandu gear and Salomon shoes to the value of $5,000, race entry, a Grade Two white water Kayak course, plus the use of a road bike and kayak while training and competing.

Kathmandu Brand Manager – PR and Sponsorship, Olivia Barclay, says, “We’re looking for students who are passionate about sport and the outdoors but require extra assistance both physically and mentally to get to the 2017 Kathmandu Coast to Coast start line.

“We’re thrilled the Kathmandu Coast to Coast is now open to school students, and it’s really exciting for us to be able to provide an opportunity to give a few potential future sports stars the chance to get involved,” Olivia adds.

Nominations are open to teams of three, between the ages of 14 – 18, who are physically able to participate in the cycling, running and kayaking legs of the two-day event. The major prize will be awarded to the team deemed most deserving, with secondary prize packages on offer for other standout entries.

Kathmandu Coast to Coast Director, Richard Ussher, sees The Academy’s prize offering as a ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’ to learn tips and tricks from seasoned racers.

“What could be more rewarding than training for and competing in one of the most unique races in the world. It is challenging but also achievable, and to have the opportunity to be trained by past winner, Steve Gurney, will be incredible for aspiring young athletes.

“The Kathmandu Coast to Coast has been going on for over 30 years and is a ‘rite of passage’ for many active New Zealanders and overseas athletes. It’s all about embracing the outdoors and a healthy, energetic lifestyle.”

Kathmandu, the leading global outdoor adventure brand, will partner with Coast Coast for the 2017 event for the first time as part of a three-year agreement.

For more information on how to enter a team for the chance to win the School’s Summit Academy Package, visit kathmandu.co.nz/coast-to-coast-academy and for non-school Academy information, visit www.coasttocoast.co.nz. Entries close 25 August.

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