Teams of four female athletes can enjoy Central’s iconic scenery and experience a fun adventure race in Cromwell this summer (February 9 - February 11).

Spirited Women - All Women’s Adventure Race is in its eleventh year, and entries are limited to 408 teams. But despite the event being six months away it’s already 75 per cent full. 

Event manager Debbie Chambers said Central was chosen because of its open spaces.

“Cromwell [for] its history, its central location and stunning scenery. The rugged mountains, the beautiful rivers and lakes, and the natural beauty of the surrounding area made it the perfect canvas for us to deliver the eleventh edition of the …race. 

“The wineries and amazing cafes were also a bonus as they provide our participants with the perfect place to relax and celebrate post race.”

The race involves teams of four women navigating a secret course by foot, mountain bike, and kayak. Along the way there will be a few mystery activities—where no prior experience is needed. 

The event is all about women making time for themselves and prioritising their health and fitness.

For many participants the journey to the event is the most cherished part as it involves regularly getting together as a team to train, learn new skills, and support one another to push their boundaries, Debbie said..

The 2022 Spirited Women start line. PHOTO: Supplied 

The 2024 Cromwell short course is sold out (there is a waitlist), but spots remain for the medium course and long course.  

There are three distances to opt for a short, medium and long course, so all levels of fitness and experience are catered for. 

Age divisions are: open (aged 13 years and over); veteran (combined age of 160 years or over); and masters (combined age of 200 years or over).

Debbie said if anyone was looking to join a team, or needs another teammate there is an event Facebook group where you can connect with other women.

“We recommend they let others know a little about themselves or their team, the event and category they are keen to do so they find a well-suited team or a person who suits their team’s goals. There is every possibility they could strike up lifelong friendships from the experience.”

Organisers are keen to hear from Central accommodation providers with capacity during February 9 -11; and are seeking a local club looking to fundraise who can provide 30 marshals over 18 years of age to help on the day. 

There is still time to prepare, plan and upskill if you're taking part, Debbie said.

“Improving their navigational expertise and biking skills can really make event day a much more enjoyable experience. [Teams] should be thinking about getting their compulsory gear, event day shoes and nutrition sorted.

“[Also] building fitness and endurance by getting out on foot and bike at least three times a week. They should be scheduling a couple of training weekends with their teammates prior to the event where they agree on roles for each team member and discuss the team's goals for event day.”

In 2016, the maiden Spirited Women – All Women’s Adventure Race was played out in the North Island adventure hotspot – Rotorua. 

Since then the race has been held in Taupo, Whakatane, Gisborne, Alexandra, Whangarei, Marlborough, the Hawke’s Bay and Wānaka. 

Watch a highlight video from the 2022 Wānaka event.

For more information email Debbie on: [email protected]