Ian Jones is no stranger to the New Zealand public as a former All Black and Sky Sports Commentator - but he's definitely not known as a trail runner. We were excited to hear that he was keen to take on the Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon so we asked him to share his thoughts on why he has entered and his plans for the race.
1. How did you first hear about the Shotover Moonlight Mountain Marathon, and why have you decided to enter for 2018?
I have seen the Shotover Moonlight race on the trail running calendar for a while. When a friend who has completed it previously said it was a must do, and that he was going back, for more I was in.
2. Do you have a background in trail running or outdoors activities yourself?
I’ve trained all my life in the outdoors and while I don’t consider myself a trail runner, or even a runner I love getting out and exploring our amazing country and taking on our unique challenges. I have competed in both GodZone and Ironman recently so I’m starting to tick off some really epic events. This adds to the list.
3. Have you spent much time exploring around the Queenstown Lakes & Central Otago - do you know the kind of terrain the course is on?
Exploring as in a tourist, but never exploring a trail runner, but that's the attraction. I have seen the elevations and know it won’t be easy, but I will be determined to smile though it and enjoy the banter with the other competitors.
4. Where do you think you’ll find to train for this terrain up North?
Auckland has an extensive trail running network, without the heights or terrain of Central Otago for us to train in. The Hilary trail in the Waitakere’s might became my new best friend.
5. Our fastest runners take just under 5hrs to complete the course, but most take 6.5hr - 7.5hrs. What do you think your finish time will be?
I have no idea……but I know it will be a long time. I want to complete it, have fun and make some new friends along the way.
6. Do you have any other events on your schedule for the rest of 2017 and 2018?
I've just run in the Kerikeri half marathon the Iron Maori in December and the new Brecca event in the Bay of Islands plus some ocean swims and local trail runs with the kids.
Thanks Ian – it’s great to hear your perspective on the race, and we look forward to seeing you at the start line February 2018 for a bit of banter.
