More than a race for me. Tarawera Ultra 2025 is here!
+ AMA recording available with Hayden Hawks & the upcoming weekly schedule
As we roll into Tarawera Ultramarathon, lining up for what will be my third year in a row at the TUM102, I find myself reflecting on just how fortunate I am to call this my full-time gig. I get to lace up my shoes, hit the trails, push my limits, and represent adidas TERREX—all as part of my job. It’s something I don’t take for granted.
With race week approaching, us adidas TERREX athletes have a few commitments—community runs, meet-and-greets, and team events that help us build connections and a presence here in New Zealand. Of course, we all want to perform on race day, but it's also about showing up, sharing what we're about, and contributing to the community that supports this sport. The key is finding that balance: being present without overextending ourselves before the race. (That goes for everyone racing, our mind & stress can be energy-depleting if we don’t harness it the right way, and we need as much energy as we can muster on race day).
At first glance, my schedule had me thinking, "Okay, that's a fair bit on." But as I sit here with my legs up and actually think about what I've done today - morning workout with my mate Hayden Hawks and teammate Dani Osanz, followed by a dip in the natural geothermal springs at Kerosene Creek - I realise it's actually pretty manageable. Last year, I juggled 20 hours of Sharesies work, coaching, race prep, and still made it to the Race Directors BBQ and the Pōhiri (welcome onto the Marae) on Friday morning—both of which I'll be attending again this year. So, busy? Maybe. But nothing I can't handle.
This time around, I’m even more excited because my focus is fully on running, community, and connection. Here’s a rundown of the events I’ll be part of during race week. If you’re around, it’d be awesome to see some familiar faces from our 'Lessons from the Long Run' community:
Sunday, 9th February:
adidas TERREX Community Run
10km and 15km options
10 AM to 1 PM
Wai Ariki Spa, with snacks and drinks after
Wednesday, 12th February:
Myself and Kiwi legend Ruth Croft have a Meet and Greet with the Winners of the adidas TERREX Giveaway
3 PM to 4 PM
Wai Ariki Spa
(Entries are now closed, but hopefully you caught it on my Instagram!)
Interview Panel with Q&A
4:30 PM to 6 PM
Wai Ariki Spa
(Come along with questions and grab a goodie bag while you're at it.)
Thursday, 13th February:
Race Directors BBQ
Evening session
Friday, 14th February:
Pōhiri
7 AM sharp
Te Puia, Rotorua
(A special welcome ceremony for manuhiri (visitors) onto the Marae.)
Dirt Church Radio Quick Interview
1:10 PM
Village Green
So yeah, a bit on, but nothing overwhelming. Honestly, I’m just excited. I’m feeling fit, ready to go, and keen to put this solid block of training to good use as I kick-start the season. Plus, it’s always a privilege to showcase this beautiful part of Aotearoa to our visiting teammates, friends, and the wider trail running community.
Hope to see you out there—on the trails, at an event, or just around town. Let’s make this race week one to remember!
For a recap of what it feels like to be racing in Tarawera, here’s my post from last year discussing the power of the cultural experience that Rotorua provides.
Thanks so much to Hayden Hawks for joining our AMA on Thursday. So good to get insight from one of the sports true icons. There’s also plenty of good Tarawera strategy chat weaved in. Thanks to everyone who joined and participated. The full chat is available to paying subs below