Routeburn Classic: 17th edition races this weekend, Queenstown runner chases 20th finish

The Routeburn Classic, one of New Zealand's most iconic trail races, returns this Saturday, August 8, with the 17th edition starting near Glenorchy. The 32km point-to-point course runs along the Routeburn Track, finishing at the Divide on the Milford Road, with the first runners expected to cross around midday. Queenstown runner Mark Henderson is chasing his 20th finish, a milestone that underscores the event's enduring pull for locals. 'Every year it's different, the weather, the track, the company. It never gets old,' Henderson told organizers. Entry is open until Friday via the event website, with a fee of NZ$99 for adults, including transport back to Queenstown. Shuttles depart from Queenstown at 5:30am, and the final shuttle leaves the finish at 7pm. The race is a highlight of the winter calendar, drawing athletes from across the country and offering a rare chance to run the Routeburn in winter conditions, expect snow at higher altitudes and crisp, clear alpine air. Volunteers will staff aid stations at Falls Hut and Lake Mackenzie, serving hot drinks and snacks. For spectators, the best viewing is at the finish, where a festival atmosphere with food trucks and live music runs from 11am to 5pm. The event is a testament to the district's adventure spirit, and with winter conditions, it's a reminder of the region's year-round appeal. Next up for trail lovers is the Motatapu in 2027, but this weekend belongs to the Routeburn.