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A test of endurance, adventure and spirit

February 20, 2025

Every February, multisport athletes from around the world take on a 243-kilometre challenge – running, cycling and kayaking across New Zealand’s spectacular South Island.

For more than 40 years, the Kathmandu Coast to Coast has offered an unforgettable experience for those daring enough to take on its demanding course.

From the windswept West Coast to Christchurch’s New Brighton Beach, the iconic race spans some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking terrain. A race started by Robin Judkins in 1983 with just 25 competitors has since grown into a global event, drawing athletes from around the world.

Kathmandu has proudly sponsored the event for the last decade.

Pushing the limits, crossing the line

Whether tackling the full course in a single day or taking on the challenge over two days, the Coast to Coast is renowned for pushing participants to their limits. The event spans three disciplines – trail running, cycling and kayaking – and includes a 30.5-kilometre mountain run, making it a true multisport challenge.

In 2025, Deborah Lynch claimed the elite women’s title in the Longest Day event. Deborah triumphed in her third attempt, outlasting five-time defending champion Simone Maier to cross the finish line in 13 hours, 6 minutes and 11 seconds. Summing up her stunning win, Deborah said: “I spent my entire day not trying to get ahead of myself and stay in the moment… I didn’t believe [I’d won] until I crossed that finish line.”

Alex Hunt was the first Australian to take the Longest Day title since 1993. Alex’s victory was years in the making – after six previous attempts and a heartbreaking second-place finish in 2024, he trained intensely for six weeks, relocating to New Zealand to prepare for the course. His dedication paid off, crossing the finish line four minutes ahead of defending champion Hamish Elliot with a time of 11 hours, 29 minutes and 20 seconds.

Race director Glen Currie emphasised the sheer dedication required to win the Kathmandu Coast to Coast. “To have a serious chance at winning the Longest Day, realistically you’re putting in 25-30 hours of training per week.”

Gear, grit and going the distance

KMD Brands fielded several employees in the event, including Jean Guney, Oboz Brand Manager for Australia and New Zealand (pictured far left alongside colleagues). For Jean, the Coast to Coast “perfectly combines my passion for trail running and the outdoors” and is a chance to test the performance of Oboz products.

Jean completed the challenge in the Oboz Katabatic Wind running shoe, designed for tough, rocky terrain, and a lightweight jacket from Kathmandu’s new Seeker range – “a waterproof yet breathable layer perfect to hit the trail in changing weather”.

More than just a race – the Kathmandu Coast to Coast is a celebration of the spirit of adventure and endurance.