Cape Brett Challenge – November 2021

RAKAUMANGAMANGA 

The 42km marathon course offers a true test that will take you through some of the most spectacular trails within the Rakaumangamanga Reserve. Setting off from the setting off from Kaingahoa Marae, you have a short 1km trail along the gravel road before turning off at Oke Bay and tackling the first mountain climb, Pukehuia passes through stunning native forest and bush. This track twists, turns, climbs and keeps ascending through the rugged landscape for 2km. This track is steep and relentless, a real endurance to start the race with exposed tree roots and the odd fallen tree will make this a challenging ‘leg burner’ to kickstart your adventure! After reaching the top, you then start ascending and descending along the ridgeline, which provides spectacular views on both sides of the peninsula. The track is rugged, steep and narrow, twisting its way down to the old site of the whaling station which is situated on the beach. Enjoy views of distant Mimiwhangata and the horizontal Poor Knights as you descend this track.The remaining historic structures make this an eerie and intriguing place to visit. After a quick refuel you are then faced with another steep and technical climb through regenerating coastal forest, up the old whalers track until you reach the main track (13km). This part of the track descends and climbs following the ridgeline through native regenerating bush, passing the most scenic toilet, through a predator proof gate, before rising up towards one of the highest parts of the course, the Rakaumangamanga mountain. Next you  begin your descent down to the beach at Deep Water Cove, and the 2nd checkpoint. Please note at this point there will be a cut-off time of 4.5hrs (10.30am). Ascending from Deep Water Cove via the same track can be challenging as it becomes narrow and exposed with steep dramatic drop-offs to the sea below. Watch your step as you follow along the cliff faces before descending down to the iconic lighthouse and Cape Brett hut below. Now you’ve reached the furthest point of the course, it’s time to turn around and head back, ascending up to the lighthouse, along the dramatic cliff top path before another thigh-burning climb up the Rakaumangamanga mountain range. Again, at the top of this is a quick stop to grab some energy boosting lollies before tackling the last 10km back to Kaingahoa. Cut off point  2.30pm (8.5 hrs).Time for another  steep climb and ascent to take you back along the track to Pukehuia mountain (345m), where there is a final water stop and pick-me-up  before descending back to Oke Bay. You’ll be happy to hit your final kilometre along the waterfront back to Kaingahoa Marae and the much-anticipated finish line.  Remember to keep some energy in the tank for that sprint finish! You are a Legend….