Elite Athlete Support

The Tauranga International Marathon is committed to supporting the development of New Zealand Elite athletes and we now operate an Elite Athlete Support program for the Marathon & Half Marathon distances.

The level of support will vary and is at the event organisations discretion. Support will depend on the athlete’s athletic history, their current form and the number of athletes applying for support.

For the 2018 race, athletes who have met the below standards may apply for support. This year’s support will include a free entry and a position on the elite start grid.

Supported athletes will be asked to generate positive Social Media (Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter) content about the event in the weeks leading up to the events.

Qualify for Elite Support

The below times must be set between 1st Jan 2017 and 1st August 2018. Any exceptions are at the event organisations discretion.

New Zealand Athletes*

42km

Men: sub 2h35min
Women: sub 3h00min

21km

Men: sub 1h12min
Women: sub 1h25min

* New Zealand Registered Athletes - these times must be evidenced on the Athletics New Zealand Ranking System

International Athletes

42km

Men: sub 2h20min
Women: sub 2h40min

21km

Men: sub 1h08min
Women: sub 1h18min

Defending Champions

We also offer defending champions of the Full and Half Marathons support the year following their win, and a free entry for 3yrs after their latest win.