Race day is coming, and if you like to line up feeling prepared, confident, and quietly smug about knowing what’s ahead, these training events are for you.
Solar Power NZ Skedaddle is one of Aotearoa’s most loved trail running events, taking place on the stunning high country singletrack of Island Hills Station in North Canterbury. As proud sponsors of Skedaddle, we’re stoked to share two community focused recce runs, designed to get your legs ready, your mind familiar with Skedaddle’s unique terrain, and your kit dialled in well before April.
Both runs are open to everyone, numbers are capped at 30 per event, and good vibes are guaranteed.
Recce 1
Sunday 15 February - Island Hills Station, Culverden
This recce is all about getting a true feel for what race day will bring. You’ll explore sections of the Skedaddle course, soak up the wide, open views at Island Hills Station, and settle into the rhythm of running in big terrain.
You’ll also hear from Shaun, the Bush Janitor, who will share more about the conservation work Skedaddle supports, a powerful reminder of why this event matters beyond the finish line.
Bring lunch, water, and nutrition. Fuelling your recce with FIXX Nutrition is a great way to practice your race day nutrition, boost performance on the day, and take one more step towards being race ready. And if the weather plays ball, pack your togs for a well-deserved post run swim.
Meet: Cookhouse at Island Hills Station at 8.45am
Run departs: 9.00am
Recce 2
Sunday 22 March - Halswell Quarry, Christchurch
Punchy climbs and plenty of elevation make Halswell Quarry the perfect place to sharpen your legs ahead of Skedaddle. With various distance options on offer, this run suits anyone wanting to test pacing, effort, and recovery on hilly terrain.
As proud sponsors of Skedaddle and long-time partners of LEKI, we are excited to add something extra to this recce. If you have ever been curious about running with poles, this is the perfect opportunity to give them a proper go in real terrain, on real climbs, exactly where they are designed to shine.
We will be bringing a selection of LEKI demo poles for you to try during this run, so you can experience firsthand how they support your rhythm on the climbs, improve efficiency, and take pressure off your legs on steep ascents and over longer distances. Whether you are pole curious or already convinced, this is your chance to test them without any pressure and see what works for you.
Meet: 8.45am
Run departs: 9.00am
Please bring your own water and nutrition for a 2 to 3 hour run.
Keen to join?
Both recce runs are limited to 30 participants, so make sure you register here. Once you’re signed up, the Skedaddle team will be in touch with more details closer to each event.
Have fun. Train smart. Dial your gear and nutrition. April will come faster than you think 😊.
Photo credits: Solar Power NZ Skedaddle and AntonMcGeachen