Te Puke resident Carolyn Symmans has competed in the Maketu Duathlon many of times – but this time she will stay at the back.

Carolyn designed the Maketu Duathlon cycle tracks and for a while participated in the event before deciding to take the back seat settling for Event organiser and the ‘tail end Charlie' – helping cyclists in trouble.

Estelle Scott and Carolyn Symmans looking over the course map. Photo by: Tracy Hardy

About five-years-ago Carolyn got on her bike and mapped two laps of one of the required bike routes – which became the challenge track duathletes ride today.

The event is a run/walk – bike – historic run/walk with standard and challenger courses offered.

Carolyn is happy to see the return of the standard run/walk and Historic Hikoi track leading participants through a historic tour of Maketu passing the native reserve - Kotukutuku Valley.

'It's a really nice walk. I think it's a good thing to get the young ones out, get them involved with exercise.

'It's just get out there and give it a go basically.”

Road closures are not put in place for the event and all road rules apply and participants are encouraged to bring a bottle of water on the day.

A number of spot prizes have been donated by the Te Puke community with a prize for the best dressed also on offer – although appropriate cycle gear must be worn.

The main sponsor is Maketu Rotary Club with help from Atrills Cyclists.

Carnival activities, music, and a sausage sizzle are also available.

Children aged 8-15 cost $10, adults $20, teams $30 and Historic Hikoi walk $10.

Duathlon begins January 26 at 8am at the Maketu Village Reserve.

To register visit www.maketunz.com