A heavy frost did not deter 200 students from Dunstan, Upper Clutha and Wakatipu primary schools who ran in the Central Otago (CO) zone cross country in Cromwell on Thursday.

At 11.15am it was -2 degrees Celsius for the first race, the Year 5 girls with fog impacting visibility for runners and spectators.

The course was a 1.5km loop marked out at the Cromwell Racecourse and a slightly longer distance for the older age groups.

Watch the first race start. VIDEO: The Central App

The frost eventually melted and muddy conditions resulted in slipping and sliding on the downhill scramble as some runners lost their footing.

The steep hill was a challenge for runners, barely visible under the fog. PHOTO: The Central App

By the time the Year 7 races began the fog had burned away but temperatures were still cool. 

Students told The Central App that fingers and toes suffered the most from the cold conditions.

Prior to CO cross country champs, runners qualified at their individual school and then zone race. 

Dunstan zone cross country event was held at McArthur Ridge vineyard on June 24.

Spectators were bundled up with beanies, gloves, down jackets, hot water bottles and blankets. PHOTO: The Central App

The Cross country is managed by COPSSA (Central Otago Primary School Sports Association) who run rippa rugby, triathlon, athletics, orienteering and swimming sports annually for students from years four to eight.  

In term three Wānaka hosts the swimming championships and in term four triathlon and orienteering are in Queenstown.

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