NZ Sotheby's Realty get amongst it at marathon
Saturday's Queenstown Marathon was more than just a marketing opportunity for its naming sponsor New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty.
Three generations of managing director Mark Harris' family laced up their running shoes to compete in the 10k, while 38 NZSIR staff from across the country raced across the various distances.
"It’s great to get the team involved and out there on the day," Harris says.
"It just encourages a healthy, outdoor and positive workspace which allows people to compete if they want to by setting their own goals and going out and achieving them, a lot like the industry we work in.
"There are a range of participants from within the business, from those that compete seriously [we had a few podiums] and those that are giving it a go for the first time which is equally, if not more so, inspiring. Over 60% of the entries in the event this year were doing it for the first time."
Harris' parents flew over from Sydney to compete in the over 70 category of the 10k, as they have done for the past six years, while wife Erika and kids Tilly, 13, and Mak, 10, also got amongst it.
"As often happens there is much chat about how everyone is going to take it easy and walk it and we should do it all together, within 50m of the start everyone’s off and it's competitive," Harris says.
"As usual I got beaten by Erika and this year also Mak our youngest. My father who is 78 came second in his category, which is pretty cool, and it's inspirational that both my parents are still eager to take part at their age. In terms of my result, having not done a single run for training, yes, happy to do the 10k, it brings me back every year."
The company is a proud sponsor of the marathon, and had an open home on the course.
"I'm probably biased but I think it’s the best event of the year in the Southern Lakes in terms of the positivity and goodwill it brings to the area.
"There are 11,000+ athletes plus support crew and friends, generating approximately $20m in revenue for town in terms of filling up the restaurants, bars, shops and hotels via a healthy outdoor pursuit that encourages people of all ages to participate - what’s not to like about it.
"It’s great seeing all the smiles it generates especially at the finish line. Seeing people achieve their goals, some of them going through a bit of adversity to get there is pretty rewarding.
"Also the positivity it generates for local business owners is pleasing after a few tough years with the pandemic and economy. We hope the event continues for a long time and keeps attracting people from around NZ and the world to Queenstown."
