High Schools around New Zealand have one last chance to get their hands on an entry into the sold-out Kathmandu Coast to Coast, with entries to the Kathmandu Coast to Coast Academy now open until July 30. 

The Academy, which is in its 5th year, aims to support young people in their quest to compete in New Zealand’s longest running multisport event and potentially spark a love for the outdoors. 

Along with a schools’ team entry into the 2022 event, Academy winners will also receive Kathmandu gear up to the value of $1,000, Coast to Coast branded team kit, coaching from an elite multisport athlete, assistance towards a grade two kayak certificate, the use of a barracuda enigma kayak and loads more. 

The three-person team entry is made up of one cyclist who has the honour of starting the race in Kumara on the rugged West Coast as well as the final ride into the finish line at New Brighton Beach, one mountain runner who tackles the challenging 32-kilometre Goat Pass, and one kayaker who’ll paddle 70 kilometres of the infamous Waimakariri River. 

“This part of the event is really exciting for us,” said Race Director Glen Currie, “gaining an entry into the Kathmandu Academy can often be the catalyst to young people starting a real love affair with adventure and the outdoors and we’re really delighted to be able to be part of that journey with them.”

“We’re really grateful for the support and backing of our partners like Kathmandu, Barracuda which enables us to be able to offer this opportunity,” Currie continued. 

Christchurch’s St Andrews College won the Academy Prize Pack in 2021, while Aotea College from Porirua and Linwood’s Coast to Coast Rangers have also been previous recipients of the award, many of whom have gone on to be involved in the Kathmandu Coast to Coast in the following years. 

The prize is also available to schools that have already gained entry to the sold-out event with Race Director Glen Currie adding, “the more creative entry the better.”

 Follow the link to enter. Click here