The WAI2K

A look at this years 100K National Long Trail Champs

The WAI2K

Saturday 23rd of November

The WAI2K 2020 was the peak of my ultra-running “career.” A 3rd place finish in the inaugral year. Sure, there were only 18 of us, but you can only finish ahead of who turns up, right?

What I remember from the weekend:

• A frantic drive over the hill to the Tauherenikau race course to make it to Rego on Friday after work.

• Great yarns with Daniel ‘Who Ate All The’ Pringle’s and Kevin Fink ‘Panther’ the night before at our cosey farm cottage

• The excitement of the morning start line. No one had run this course before, so it felt more like an adventure than a race.

• Finishing down the Tauherenikau River with the sun setting, looking over my shoulder, checking if the headlamps of the runners I could see chasing me for the last 10km were getting any closer

• Sitting in the back of an ambulance with Shoereview Stu getting celebratory drips

The next day as I lay in bed, considering which side of the bed was going to hurt the least to get out of, I thought to myself

“Gareths on to a winner here.”

Unfortunately, It’s never quite kicked on. I’m not sure if it was Covid that stopped the WAI2K in its tracks or something else. It just hasn’t quite reached the dreamy heights of its older sibling, the WUU2K.

Well, I have a feeling thats all about to change.

This year, the WAI2K 100KM course is the Long Trail National Championships, appointed by Athletics NZ.

Last year, the 100KM was pulled due to low numbers.

This year, 27 people have already registered (100 bibs are available), and just look at this field. Races around the country outside of Tarawera would die to have a starting list this good, and we’ve still got four months until I beat Kevin Fink again race day.

Many of you will be familiar with the WUU2K, and you would be forgiven to presume that this event is fairly similar.

Well, presumptions are the mother of all c🍆ck ups.

The WUU2K is warm and outgoing. Confident in themselves and very popular.

The WAI2K … well, they’re quiet and menacing. They’ve got a neck tattoo and a scar on their cheek, which they got when they were on the ‘inside.’
You can tell they’re wild AF.
You don’t mess with the WAI2K.

It’s just got that “Don’t f🤬ck with me” resting face.

The course has changed somewhat over the last few renditions, with Gareth tweaking it to find a good balance between a rugged wilderness vibe and a runnable ultra.

The major difference is that unlike the first year, which started and finished in Waiarapa, it now begins in Waiarapa and finishes in Upper Hutt Hardcore.

One of the highlights was starting with several k’s running down the river, which has been replaced with some flat country roads, but understandably so, that many river crossings cause a lot of red flags on the H&S forms and a large amount of logistical stress the week before the event refreshing the weather forecast and river levels.

Let’s take a look at what’s on offer this year at The WAI2K:

📏12KM | ⛰️500M

📏25KM | ⛰️1200M | UTMB INDEXED

📏50KM | ⛰️2600M | UTMB INDEXED

📏100KM | ⛰️4000M | UTMB INDEXED

Both the 50km & 100km start in the Waiarapa with the 50 taking all the best parts of the 100km course and cramming it into 50km.

The 12 & 25 km start in the nation of Upper Hutt Hardcore and run on a lot of the same trails that the back end of the 100km runners will suffer through. The courses are a lot less technical and faster running than the 50 & 100, perfect for someone wanting to go full gas or just getting their feet wet in this crazy world of trail running.

Since the 100km course is the National Champs this year, let’s take a deeper look at the course.

GODWAIDIDISIGNUP2K:📏100KM ⛰️4000M

Woodside Train station > Bucks Campsite

The WAI2K 100km starts a bit like a drug deal. At 6 AM, at the back of the Woodside train station, white powder all bagged up, and sketchy-looking people nervously laugh and look around.

Last year’s tropical start line Photo: WAI2K Insta

It starts inconspicuously enough with a 4.5km warm-up along Underhill Road before hitting the new Swingbridge along the Underhill to Bucks Road turnoff.
You then follow Bucks Road to the campsite after 9KM, your first aid station. Run through here at your peril.

It’s 14km to the next aid station over the most brutal terrain of the day. Stock up, get some food down, and get excited. You’re about to experience one of the Waiarapa’s hidden gems, The Frith Track.

A classic NZ country road to warm up on. Photo: WAI2K Insta

Bucks Campsite > Kaitokie

The Frith Track has been Gareth’s personal project for the last 5 years.. He has spent countless hours (with the help of many volunteers) cutting back the scrub. I would describe it as one part Tararua and one part Central Plateau.

Stunning views from the Frith Track ... if you're luckyPhoto: WAI2K Insta

As you can see, looking at the elevation profile, it’s a long, slow grind up to the high point. Calf sleeves could be a good option for you here if you’re not fond of getting the shit scratched out of you. It’s more the sawn-off branches you need to watch for. These can ruin your day.

You follow this until you hit the Pylon track, and you follow this across to the infamous Puffer Saddle - It will pay dividends having your big lugs on through this section. The Alpha Flys can come out later.

Some beautiful tops running Photo: WAI2K Insta

Kaitokie > Te Marua

There is some brief relief along some country roads and private farms to reach the Norbett Creek loop. The climb up is short and steep on a 4WD service road. Make sure you have your GPX loaded and or do a reccie of this section. You don’t want to miss the turn-off the 4WD and start heading down the other side. If you end up at the Wellington Water Catchment … you’ve just f🤬cked your day.

Depending on your appetite, the descent off the 4WD is the steepest and most “fun” of the day. This is the younger sibling of the Raingauge track from Jumbo Hut if you’re familiar with the Tararua Ranges. Keep your eyes peeled, as there are some subtle twists and turns. With the gradient, it’s easy to overshoot them and end up triangle-hunting.

Bottom of the Norbet Creek Loop Photo: WAI2K Insta

Once you land at the bottom, you’ll find the next aid station. The course traditionally goes over the Swingbridge loop track around, but the bridge is currently being worked on, and I don’t think it will be open in time for the race, so that's something to keep an eye on. Regardless, you’ll get a couple of easier filler Ks through here before hitting the Kaitoke Ridge track.

This track is like Upper Hutt’s favourite drink, Cody’s 8%. It hits you hard, and if you’re not careful, you’ll be keeled over with vomit on your shoes, calling an Uber to pick you up. Pace yourself well, and you’ll have a lovely time flowing along the ridge into a steep descent that will probably damage your quads just enough to come unstuck coming down Mt. Climie at the end.

At the bottom of the descent, you’ll run into an aid station, which marks the end of the wilderness section. Time to get those Alpha Flies and ripped shirts on, it’s time to run. Also worth to note, there’s barely any shade for the rest of the race, make sure you’ve got a good hat and get the olive oil out to work on the tan.

Te Marua > Cross Creek

There is a short road section before hitting some forest roads that lead to the SH2 underpass. This section has some quite punchy undulations but nothing too technical.

Once you’re under SH2, you’ll hit a ‘T’ intersection. Run straight through to Goat Rock track until you join the Incline track. Caution: It is a steady climb up Goat Rock, and there’s still plenty of work to do, so don’t torch yourself coming down the other side onto the Incline.

Whether it’s the WUU or the WAI, you’ll get some smiling volunteers. Photo: WAI2K Insta

Once on the Incline, follow it down to Cross Creek. It’s a steady grind up to the summit, fully runnable on what I would call a 4WD trail or double track. Smile, knowing that you get to go back down it later.

Cross Creek > Finish

Load up on everything you could possibly desire; if things aren’t tough yet, they’re about to be. It’s time to go back the way you came. One advantage is that if you’re racing for places, you'll get a good time check of those in front and behind you.

You’ll be thankful they’ve put a bridge in now when you’re heading back. Photo: WAI2K Insta.

Grind your way back up to the Summit (it will feel a lot steeper than when you came down it). Just past the Summit, take a right turn and follow the Back road around until it takes you back to the incline trail.
Now, you’ll find yourself back at the 'T' intersection. Take a left and harden yourself. You’re about to see the finish line area.

Almost at the top (IYKYK) Photo: Jub Bryant

In a cruel twist of fate, you run past the finish line area and follow the Mangaroa tunnel around a 5km circuit, which takes you up to Mt Climie. It’s a bit like seeing what’s for dessert while working on an over-cooked piece of steak tofu. What better way to finish the race than a climax on Climie? It’s a good, honest climb that will test your will to finish. If you’re in the race of your life, this will provide you with another great opportunity to see where everyone around you is. Hit the turnaround point, and it’s all downhill to the finish—roughly 6km. If you have any electrolytes or salt pills left, take them now. Good luck, quads, you’re going to need it.

That’s my take on the course. This is how Gareth describes the race on the website.

“The WAI2K 100km course will take you on a journey of mental and physical challenges. There is around 4km of elevation over the course, with a lot of vert in the first half of the run. There is a perfect mix of gravel roads, single track, mud, rivers, tunnels, bridges, and open forestry trails to enjoy! VERT: 4000m est”

Gareth Thomas

Compulsory Kit

It’s a relatively hefty compulsory kit, but it's justified. Depending on the forecast, some items may be able to be stashed in drop bags.

1. First Aid Kit including strapping tape and/or bandage (for sprains etc). Must be a fully equipped kit

2. Emergency bag/blanket

3. Seam-sealed Windproof/waterproof Jacket (See image below for seam-sealed example)

4. Thermal long sleeved top (Insulating/Thermal/Polyprop/Baselayer etc))

5. Gloves (Insulating/Thermal/Polyprop - Merino/wool type gloves)

6. THIR and/or warm hat (Insulating/Thermal/Polyprop)

7. Race vest/Pack with bladder/bottles (or both)

8. Water (At least 1L capacity). Front bottles advised as we have NO CUPS at all Aid Stations

9. Food/Nutrition (There will be aid stations but please do not rely on this as a main source of nutrition)

10. Compass (on GPS device is fine)

11. Topo Maps on your Mobile Device (NZ Topo etc)

12. Whistle

13. Head Torch (Night running/Tunnels) plus spare battery(s)

14. Fully charged mobile device with emergency contacts including race officials.

15. Hi Viz Vest for the morning road leg to Bucks Campsite (You can leave these at Bucks Aid Station, and will be brought to the finish for you)

Gareth Thomas - The Pain Conductor

Gareth was generous enough to take time out of his schedule to answer some of my annoying questions.

The WUU2K & WAI2K are similar in name, but what are the big differences in the races?

“Basically, I moved to the Wairarapa in 2017, and seeing there were no WUU2K's out this way, I made it my goal to create something similar, while focusing on highlighting the local trails, some that just don't get enough recognition in my opinion.”

“I wanted a course that delivered while maintaining accessible Aid Stations (for spectators to pop in and say hi also), so I've kept this element as much as I could to mimic the WUU courses. Obviously, the WUU has a 21k, 45k, 65k, whereas I've adapted the WAI to be a 100 split down in halves to the 12.5 (100 - 50 - 25 - 12.5). I have changed these categories since inception also as you know, and now I think I'm happy with where they sit, offering a nice balance from entry-level to the more advanced.”

“The WAI100 has the option to downgrade (which I don't have at the WUU), and this has become quite a popular choice for many. Once 100k runners hit the Station Drive Aid Station (42km mark), they get the choice to ease their suffering and take the 50k finish, or carry on with the 100k (kind of like the red pill or the blue pill). I have this as an option for runners as a means of still getting a finish over a DNF, and a lot have chosen this path in the past.”

“Other notable differences include the more technical trails, it is a more rural run than the WUU's urban feel, and even though it's closer to Summer than the WUU, it's rained more!”

The distance options and courses have changed a number of times. Are you happy with the current offering?

“As stated above, yes I think I've found the perfect balance from the introductory trail, to the more advanced.”

“The first year we had all sorts going on, so it's best to keep it simple while offering a decent plethora of trail delicacies.”

The 100K has historically struggled for numbers. What do you put that down to?

“The WAI began in 2020 which was obviously not the best time to begin a new event, and I haven't had any budget for marketing either, and as those of you who know me, I keep things fairly minimal in terms of mass marketing in general. I do this because I much prefer word-of-mouth as opposed to 'forced' mass advertising if that makes sense?”

“I truly believe that the 100k course is world-class for trail running, and those that have run the course, know just how magical it is. Yes, it's tough, but trail runners don't want a piss-easy, flat, boring 100k event. They want grunt, and gnarl, and twists and turns while taking a minute on the trails to appreciate just how f🤬🤬king lucky they are to be there. I believe in the course and have a feeling it'll become one of the NZ trail running scenes more iconic races in time.” 

What is your favourite part of the WAI2K course and why?

“Frith track. The first time I went up there as I was tying the WAI together, I was amazed at how f🤬🤬ked it was. I mean, honestly I lost the track a few km in (it's around 8-9km long), thought F*&K this, and went back to the car with scratches all over me.”

“For me, it was the connecting tissue to make the WAI 50/100 work. In order to do this, I trimmed it back myself for year #1, which, admittedly was very minimal (DOC wouldn't let me use power tools etc). Year #2 some locals had gone up and trimmed some bits back, so it was better. Year #3 GWBN crew with Derrick Field, myself and a few others spent 11 days with scrub bars and hard yakka to knock it right back.”

“This year GWBN will be back to cut it right back, so it'll be a 'breeze' to run. So yeah - Frith track - such an underrated trail that should have much more recognition (like the WUU and WAI I guess).”  

What is your 1# tip for having a good race at WAI2K? (outside of making sure you train appropriately)

“Don't underestimate the first 42km. If you have nothing left in the bank by Station drive, you'll have a tough time on the incline, 34km out and back and mostly flattish/runnable on good legs.”

“Recce parts unknown prior to race day, and study the course map. It's actually easier to navigate than the WUU in my opinion, as it's a lot of orange triangles to follow, and tramping trails. The Capra app will be handy with offline maps if you go wrong also.”

Tell us about your favourite moment/memory from directing the WAI2K

“Shit man there's been a few! A notable time was 2021 (or 2) I think it was. As we were waiting in some 'light rain' for the back-of-pack 100k runners, our TEC Simon Chamberlain for the Climbie leg was up top just as a heavy front was coming through.”

“He was on the radio to me, as I was checking on the final 2 runners. We were 'missing' one runner who may have been missed up Climbie. I called Simon on the radio to check. Roughly here was our dialogue:”

Gareth - "Simon, are you ok up there?"

SImon - "Gareth, I can't see shit! My glasses are fogged up, and I can't see where I'm going!? F🤬ck this shit"

Gareth - "Ok Simon cool. Have you seen runner #...?

Simon - "What!? I can't see sh💩t Gareth! F🤬ck this!"

Gareth - "Ok, if you see them, let me know. First Aid are going to send a ute up to check. Over"

Simon - "F🤬ck you Gareth. Over"

“A few other notable times were Chris Martin TEC'ing the 100k relay split in year #1, and realising the runner was pretty fast and he had to do his best to keep up, Charles Navarro putting his emergency bag on the wrong way and getting trapped in it, and Ed Thomas bringing 100 drop bags in year #1.”

What is the biggest mistake you frequently see at the WAI2K?

“100k runners not taking poles for the last climb up Climbiem (especially slower runners). If running the 100k, leave your poles in the finish line drop bag for the last climb. I highly recommend having them for this final leg just to help your body. It's around 600m, open forestry trails and you'll be really tired. They'll help. Trust me.”

Is there anything else you would like to say to the NZ trail running community?

“Come and run the WAI2K. No, it's not a fully-funded gold-plated trail running event, but it is world-class, without being swamped by 1000's of other anxious runners vying for some space.”

There you have it- The WAI2K.

Entries are open if you’ve developed a severe case of FOMO. Register here.

Check out who you’ll be eyeballing at the start line here

If you’ve got bigger fush to fry, these events always need more volunteers.

Get in touch with the team here if you want to get involved.

If you enjoyed this article or want to share some of your experience of the WAI2k, drop a comment below or email trailrunningnz@gmail.com