After leading a break away on the first cycle leg and being out in front for almost all of the gruelling 243-kilometre race, Manson was reeled in with just 30 kilometres to go by eventual race winner Dougal Allan, forcing Manson to settle for second.

However, the 29-year-old is ready to use that experience as motivation as he announces his entry into the event's 40th anniversary race in February. “I was gutted to get so close this year but incredibly proud of how most of the day went... I know I can win this race and I won’t stop until I have."

While 2021 wasn’t the first time Manson has finished 2nd, his latest performance gives him real confidence that he has the ability to win the much sought-after title. “Each year I get a little bit faster, and I’m certain next year will be no exception."

Manson has consistently achieved a Top 10 placing since his first event in 2013.

While training consumes a lot of his time, working as a coach to other Coast to Coast competitors through his own small business, alongside guiding and teaching on the Coast-to-Coast course, Manson is continuing to build up a library of course knowledge. “The nature of my work means that I am always on the terrain that the Kathmandu Coast to Coast takes place on, from knowing the Waimakariri river braids to the ‘secret’ lines through the Goat Pass run stage. If I’m not training on the course, I am working with clients on it. Course knowledge is one of my advantages and it definitely plays its part on race day."

Manson is the first top-ranked male competitor to announce their entry into the 2022 Kathmandu Coast to Coast.

The multisport race has been running every year since 1982 and the upcoming 2022 event will be a milestone 40th event. 1-Day competitors must travel by foot, bike and kayak from Kumara Beach on the West Coast of the South Island to New Brighton beach, Christchurch on the East Coast, a total of 243 km.

Entries are currently completely full with a large waitlist.