With only two New Zealand-born, Corrinne O'Donnell and Jess Simson, claiming the top spot over the last 10 years, the question lingers – can a Kiwi outpace the internationals? The event promises intense and fast-paced racing, with athletes fully aware that securing victory demands an almost-perfect effort on race day.

Once again, there’s an exciting depth of talent, with many athletes vying for supremacy. Wanaka’s Simone Maier (originally from Germany) is back to defend her title, securing the top seed with consistent training in her build-up. However, Fiona Dowling and Rebecca Kingsford, last year's second and third-place finishers, are determined to challenge Maier's bid for her fifth championship title, both showing strong preparations.

Is it finally time to be Dowling’s year? She hopes there's something in the 10^th time on the start line, much like last year’s Champion, Sam Manson, who finally cracked the podium top spot after a decade of trying. Dowling, originally from Ireland and now based in Christchurch, is known for her exceptional kayaking and transforming her running weakness into a strength. She has secured 2nd and 3rd podium places in recent years, leaving only one podium position unclaimed.

Rebecca Kingsford brings a single-minded focus to secure victory this year. Based in Christchurch, she has dedicated significant time to her build-up, focusing on race-day strategies and building her strength. While almost guaranteed a podium spot, the question remains, which position will she claim?

In her remarkable 19th consecutive year, Finland-born Elina Ussher reasserts her presence on the starting line, demonstrating that age is no obstacle. Drawing on her wealth of experience, she is arguably the most experienced competitor in the elite field, men included; the main question is whether she still has the speed in the legs to hold off the younger competitors.

Deb Lynch, seeded fifth after last year’s impressive debut, continues to impress with some remarkable times clocked over the course of her summer training. With a focus on improving her kayaking as she heads into this year’s race, she is potentially the one to create the upset.

Maria Kolk from Sweden enters the scene with plenty of experience in adventure races overseas. A newcomer to the event, Kolk's potential is not to be underestimated, contingent on her effective knowledge of the course. Hannah Lund, hailing from Methven, is currently in stellar form and Julia Chamberlain from Darfield, last year's Longest Day Open Women winner, is ready to assert herself as a formidable contender.

The competition in the female field runs deep, with each participant showcasing determination and preparation, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive race. "It's going to be who wants it the most on the day," adds Currie.

The 2024 Women’s Longest Day winner will walk away with $10,000, while the prize money for both the second and third-place getters receive $4,500 and $2,500, respectively, equal to the men's prize money.

Women’s Longest Day Top 10

1. Simone Maier, Wanaka (Originally from Germany) - Bib #11,
2. Fiona Dowling, Christchurch - Bib #12
3. Rebecca Kingsford, Christchurch - Bib #13
4. Elina Ussher, Nelson (Originally from Finland) - Bib #14
5. Deborah Lynch, Tawa - Bib #15
6. Hannah Lund, Methven - Bib #16         
7. Tessa Aukje Dekker, Christchurch (Originally from the Netherlands) - Bib #17     
8. Julia Chamberlain, Darfield - Bib #18
9. Maria Ehlin Kolk, Östersund, Sweden - Bib #31   
10. Alice Mullins, Christchurch - Bib #20