Runathon brings in $1200 for triathlete A final runathon has brought in an extra $1200 in funding to see off Cook Islands triathlete Rangi Apera on her way to the Pacific Games.

The fundraiser event was held in conjunction with a recreational half marathon at Tikioki during the weekend to help pay the way of Apera and her manager Apii Napa.

A huge number of family and supporters turned out, with teams from Aperas family running the race for her, and Napa herself running the entire race, along with fundraiser organiser Pare Tangata.

Eighteen other runners turned out for the half marathon to run alongside Aperas family.

Bets were on for who would cross the finish line first between guns Roland Neururer and Scott Howley.

They ran almost the entire race together, with Rolands experience winning out and him breaking away in the last 2.5km to take the race in a personal best time of 1 hour 27 minutes 11 seconds, with Scott coming in just over a minute later in 1.28.14.

Triathlete Kelly Pick, who set the fast pace with the boys at the beginning of the race, was third over the line in 1.29.50.

Fourth went to Rhys Woodger in 1.36.38 with Vanessa Palmer taking out fifth in 1.40.52. Rounding up the top 10 were Mark Worthington, Geoff Stoddart, Chris McGeown, Dean Head and Nana Hirata.

There were many athletes on their debut half marathon and the smiles were evident at the end of their race, with first-timer Madeline Sword-Tua remarking at the end of her race You guys are mad!

Most runners were either on their debut or boasted personal bests. More smiles continued throughout the morning, with a sausage sizzle for all supporters and athletes, compliments of Rangi and Apiis supporting families, and an announcement made that over $1200 had been raised during the runathon.

A fantastic effort for all involved and proof of how proud we all are of Rangi to be representing the Cook Islands and triathlon.

A huge meitaki maata was forthcoming from both Rangi and Apii, with well wishes from all on their travels when they depart tonight (Monday).

CITAI would like to thank all those involved, as well as all the volunteers who helped on the day including Terai Hill, Steve Whitta, Taki Anaru, Rebecca Brown, Karen Tairea and her elves, and all the family helpers who chipped in helping with marshalling and water stops. Everyones efforts made it a fantastic morning.