Local pilot Andrew Logan has set a new Cook Islands record at the 2024 Oceania Half Marathon event in the Gold Coast, Australia this week.

The new national 21 kilometre half marathon record set by Rarotonga resident Logan stands at 1 hour 23:58 minutes.

The previous record of 1 hour 27:36 minutes was set by Olfred Maiteao in 1989.

Logan said it was a great experience to compete at an international level representing the Cook Islands alongside some very accomplished and experienced runners.

He says distance running requires months of training, adding hard work and preparation is the key to achieving goals and producing good results.

“It’s a great achievement for me to improve my Half Marathon PB (personal best) time on a challenging course and to also set a new national record for this distance.”

Last year, Logan participated in the World Cross Country Championships in Bathurst, Australia, Auckland Marathon (42km) and the 2023 Round Rarotonga Road Race (31km).

Recently, he participated in the 2024 Aitutaki Half Marathon (21km).

Logan said he would be taking part in another marathon that’s coming up in a few weeks.