Once again, when Nath sets his mind to something there’s no changing it. His big goal for 2023 the WUU2k. 21km with 1,000m Elev. I had plans of being his chaperone for this one – a few months out I realised we were going to need someone faster…. I think my days of being his pacer are already done. I’m equal parts proud but also as his Mum, ‘not ready’.
Enormous thanks to Lee for supporting and running alongside Nath during a large portion of his training. And for putting aside your own goals of running the 62km to be with Nath. Well done Nathan for doing the mahi to get here. You are just a kiddo but an incredible example of determination, dedication and grit. Thanks too to Coach David for all of his advice, training, race insight and encouragement.
It was fantastic to see Coach David and Amanda at the 21km start line… briefly. Once the starters gun went David took off, leading from the front from the get go, and out to smash the course record.
A must-do event in the Wellington trail running community. Lots of our Wellington friends were out either running or volunteering over the weekend and the three courses, and plenty having travelled from New Plymouth and elsewhere too. It was also a great opportunity to see and meet, in person, some friends we’d connected with only on the ‘Gram.
Some FOMO as they got underway. It feels like an empty year of events for me as I try and heal my right knee. Grateful for Amanda’s company after the start, as we warm up with a coffee and together make our way to the bottom of Tip Track to cheer for and watch runners come through.
Unsurprising David is first to come roaring down the hill. Amanda throws a fresh bottle and some gels to him and then leaves in her car to race him to the finish line. There is a gapping void of runners between David and second place. I sit and wait patiently, glued to the live tracker and hopeful that Lee and Nathan are doing ok.
They’re easy to spot coming down the track in their twin purple WUU2k tops. There is huge relief, excitement and pride as they cross the road and run past me. I scream and cheer, and Lee assures me Nath is doing fine. I’ll next see them at the Mt. Vic finish. News filters through, David is finished already and has topples the 21 km Course Record!
(Four images above via Photos4Sale team)
Proud is an understatement. The race plan changed so many times in the last 3-4 weeks and Nath just kept his cool and took it all in his stride. Nothing would stop him. An absolutely amazing effort.
Big love to Dad for looking after him out there… and for being able to keep up.
Nathan Webber – 2:57:52
57 of 196 (47th Male finisher)
A huge congratulations to everyone that took part in WUU2k… and for taking on all those bloody hills! Absolute legends all of you, and blimmin’ inspiring to witness.
Well done David on taking the 21km win and CR. And to our Taranaki friend Erin Vaughan (photos below) on a spectacular run and 2nd place in the 62km Ultra Marathon. Redemption!
A special thanks to Race Director, Gareth Thomas (below in the yellow top). So grateful for you backing Nath and sponsoring him as an event ambassador this year; it meant a lot. And to your 2IC and Volly Chief Cate Shave, we so appreciate all your mahi – thank you for putting on another epic WUU2k event. We will be back!
