Queenstown’s one day multisport event, the Peak to Peak, is stepping into a new era with a fresh team at the helm of the iconic winter event.
Queenstown based Active Tonic Ltd, a subsidiary of 100% Pure Racing – the sports event company behind the world’s largest adventure race GODZone and Australia and New Zealand’s Red Bull Defiance – are the new owners of the event.
The new look Peak to Peak will be fronted by local event specialist Adrian Bailey who says the Active Tonic team is enthusiastic about taking on the popular event, that has been held annually at The Remarkables and Coronet Peak ski fields since 1994.
“This is one of Queenstown’s biggest multisport attractions and the only race of its kind during winter with its unique combination of disciplines that include skiing or snowboarding, mountain biking, kayaking and running,” says Bailey.
“The Active Tonic team are looking to re-energise the race, attract a wider cross section of competitors and streamline the event to ensure it continues to be a ‘must do’ activity in the lower South Island during the winter season.”
The event, developed by former Queenstowner Geoff Hunt, was originally designed to link the Remarkable Mountain Range and Coronet Peak with Queenstown during the resort’s Queenstown Winter Festival.
“The premise is still the same and the event is a real showcase of the regions popular winter playgrounds. We are super excited to be working alongside NZSKI to develop and fine tune the Peak to Peak to ensure its legacy continues as a great Queenstown multisport attraction,” says Bailey.
Coronet Peak Ski Area Manager Nigel Kerr says there is no question the Peak to Peak is a highlight on the Coronet Peak and The Remarkables ski area event calendar.
“The Peak to Peak is one of those classic events that has become part of the event programme on both mountains and we are looking forward to continue hosting it. The event is always an action-packed day with competitors making the dash on skis, bike, kayak and foot from The Remarkables, down to Queenstown, and back up to Coronet Peak.”
Adrian Bailey says there are no immediate plans to change the Peak to Peak disciplines or race course. The first improvements to be implemented are a move of event dates and the inclusion of a tandem racing category.
“By moving the event to the 14th September, we have transitioned the race out of the traditional night skiing month which provides greater flexibility when competitors arrive at Coronet Peak towards the end of the afternoon.”
“This allows us to host an extended finish line and prizegiving area up inside the Coronet Peak base building and create a fun, social vibe and atmosphere for teams, friends, families and supporters to enjoy.”
Entries will open for the 2019 Peak to Peak in May 2019.
For more information;
Peak to Peak Media Liaison
Margo Berryman
Ph: 021 246 3342
Email: margo@qt.co.nz