John's 69th Birthday and 'The Dual'

Hannah's Dad (John) timed his visit to Auckland with his 69th Birthday. The day itself fell on the day of The Dual, an off road adventure race across two islands, Motatapu and Rangitoto. Gareth entered to do the half marathon, and several other friends also took part in the half marathon or 50km mountain bike races. Hannah, John and other eager and committed supporters (thanks Y and Mags!) travelled over to the islands to see the competitors take part.

The day started off with a beautiful sunrise which Hannah and John took in along the waterfront drive.





Sunrise at the harbour



Hannah and John with Rangitoto (one of the two islands for the race)

The race started on Motatapu, climbing up a steep hill before running along open grasslands along a ridgeline.



The start line



Supporters looking at the first/last hill - it was very steep indeed!

After running 5kms over Motatapu, the route crossed onto Rangitoto, a volcanic island, via a causeway formed from its volcanic lava flows. It then steadily climbed up to Rangitoto's summit at 200m. The route back to Motatapu took competitors along a scramble across loose volcanic rock (called scoria). Everyone lurched and slipped across the uneven lava surface before returning to Motatapu and the starting/finishing point.



Sarah finishing strongly



Ben completing the Mountain Bike

Gareth loved the event and was pleased with his time (2hrs 34mins) given the terrain and route. How many opportunities do you have to do a half marathon on a volcano?



Post race debrief



Stretching the sore muscles

After the event, we munched through a picnic, before hopping into the sea to refresh sticky and aching bodies.



Coastal location



Queueing for the ferry back

We returned to Auckland to find flowers on our doorstep sent by Alice.



John unwrapped the present from Hannah and Gareth - a camelbak - an integrated backpack and water bottle with connecting drinking tube to stay hydrated during exercise. We figured it would be handy for John's walks in Cumbria and the upcoming cycle trip we're all booked onto next week.



And we all enjoyed Mike and Jenny's present of a meal out at a local Italian restaurant. The food and wine were just what everyone needed after a busy birthday!



Cheers Mike and Jenny!



Buon Appetito!



Gareth and his Mt Difficulty wine - appropriate after the difficult climb up Rangitoto that morning!