In 2023 we successfully ran the inaugural Loburn 68, in conjunction with Athletics New Zealand National Road Relay. The 68 was the combined distance of two loops which crossed the Ashley River / Rakahuri from Rangiora. We’ve listened to the running community and to make it more exciting and inclusive, there’s just the one loop (39k) course on offer this year.
What’s in
the name?
Create a team
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Share the adventure
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Create a team • Share the adventure •
How we got here - From T2A
to Loburn 39
The iconic Takahe to Akaroa Road Relay has delighted road runners from 1935 to 2021. It was the premiere road relay for Canterbury, the South Island and probably New Zealand. However, highway safety requirements made it impractical and so a temporary solution was developed in 2022 using a course in Bottle Lake Forest near Christchurch. Some benefits of a loop-based course and an events hub were highlighted.
Sure, change isn’t always easy but the amazing history of T2A will be part of the legacy for a new event, something exciting to build a stellar future.
With this in mind we sought a road relay course that is safe, convenient, sustainable and appealing; the Loburn 68 was created in 2023. Bordered by hills and rivers, the rolling terrain is bisected by quiet country roads. Just north of the Rangiora township, it’s in easy reach of Christchurch, about 30 minutes drive away.
In 2024 we are rolling out the Loburn 39, which is a six person team relay that we hope will engage more runners.
Important Information
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If you are using your vehicle to go around the course, please park on the grass verges on Loburn Whiterock Road outside of the Domain
If you are not using your vehicle please park on the lower field of the Domain – drive into the Domain and follow the signs and marshals
At the Baton changes
There should be sufficient parking on the grass verge near the baton change ( try past the baton change)
Do not park on the Road
Do not stop to drop of runners while on the Road
Do not park on the side of the road that the runners are running on.
Note
Bradys Road is one way from Loburn Whiterock Road to Loburn Terrace Road (in direction of the race)
Dixons Road is one way from Cones Road to Marshmans road – cars will be travelling on the right hand side of the road.
This means there is a detour down Marshmans Road to get back to Dixons Road after Cones Road so you can follow your runner back to the Domain.
