Hundreds step it out for Hastings half-marathon | Hawkes Bay News | Local News in Hawkes Bay

By 7.30am the first group was off - walking, running and toward the end of the 21.1km half-marathon course around Havelock North yesterday perhaps a bit of hobbling.

In perfect weather conditions, 445 people completed the 10km Tumu ITM fun run/walk and the SpecSavers half-marathon.

People of all ages and athletic abilities took part, from teenagers to runners in their 70s.

Race director Craig Burns said the 10km run/walk was especially popular with women maximising the "fun" aspect of the race.

"There are quite a few new ones [this year]. They just come and do it and say 'I'm a completer, not a competer'. That's the big thing for them."

Mr Burns was pleased with the turnout, especially from the Port of Napier contingent who wore red T-shirts and were supporting the Christchurch earthquake cause.

Run Walk Hawke's Bay committee member Joff Hulbert gave up his usual walking judge duties and took part this year, finishing the half-marathon walk in 2 hours 10 minutes.