I've now done the ultra option, on the first year of this race's existence, and now the trail marathon, on the second year of this race's existence. And what can I say?
The course is superb - a city "urban ultra" (the UU part of WUU-2K) in which you only really see roads to cross them, covering a large range of trail networks around New Zealand's capital. And hills. Did I mention hills? the 2K part of WUU-2K stands for the approximate elevation gain for the marathon event. The ultra is about 600 metres more in climbing.
This is such a friendly event, with volunteers making up the entirety of the marshalling / aid stations / you name it. Oh, and they all take loads of photos so you've an abundance of quality race photos... for free... as it's shared within the incredible running community of Wellington. How nice is that?
The even has doubled in size within a year, and I expect it to grow further next year with how well this is put on by the event organisers (and community).
From the initial uphill start to Kaukau, through to that last uphill to the iconic finish that s Mt Victoria, it's trail bliss. Especially if you like hills.
This time though it's the marathon course I'm reviewing, and that has only a fun downhill, whereas the ultra version has an equally "fun" uphill in the form of the legendary Tip Track. So as a marathoner you get to run down it watching those ultra-legends slog ther way up. Such fun!
Crossing the finish line to the awaiting medal, cup cake, burger, etc is made even more sweet for the party atmosphere that awaits you. There's nothing wrong with this course. And even though it's a winter event, I swear the organiser has control over the weather, as it's a 100% success rate on amazing weather for this event. Next time I'll pack my sunnies