Auckland’s own Konoka Azumi is set to defend her TMiler title at the prestigious Tarawera Ultra-Trail by UTMB this weekend. Taking place in the scenic Rotorua region of New Zealand, the 100-mile race will commence at 4:00 am local time on Saturday, February 15, 2024. With arguably one of the strongest elite line-ups in its 16-year history, Azumi is viewed as the clear favorite among female participants.
Konoka Azumi’s Competitive Edge
As the reigning champion, Azumi feels a mixture of excitement and pressure as she prepares for this significant challenge. “It’s an honor to compete as the defending champion, and I am motivated to improve on my previous performance,” she stated. Last year’s outcome fueled her ambition to push her limits further. Azumi expressed her eagerness to engage with other elite athletes, noting the unique energy and support that characterizes the Tarawera Ultra-Trail.
Goals Beyond the Title
Aside from defending her TMiler title, Azumi has her sights set on securing qualification for the prestigious UTMB event in 2025. This target can be achieved if she finishes among the top three female runners in the TMiler. “Qualifying for the UTMB would be an incredible opportunity, but my main goal is to see how far I can push myself compared to last year,” she said. The race is not just about winning for Azumi; it’s also about personal growth and improvement in her athletic performance.
Hillary Allen’s Inspiring Comeback
Joining Azumi on the start line is Hillary Allen, an experienced ultra-runner from the USA. Allen’s participation is remarkable, especially considering the serious accident she endured in 2017, when she fell 150 feet off a cliff. Since her recovery, Allen has accumulated impressive wins and podium placements. “This is my first time racing in New Zealand, and I’m thrilled to experience the beautiful trails and community atmosphere,” she remarked. Like Azumi, Allen aspires to qualify for the UTMB, aiming for a strong performance in the TMiler.
Strong Local Competition
The TMiler will also see fierce competition from notable New Zealand-based runners, including Katie Wright, who boasts a collection of TMiler medals, and Naomi Brand from South Africa. Moreover, Kimino Miyazaki, the runner-up from the 2022 TMiler, will also be in attendance. With such a competitive field, Azumi will need to bring her best to defend her title successfully.
Sam Harvey: Aiming for Glory
In the men’s TMiler race, Sam Harvey emerges as the favorite after finishing second last year and winning the 100-mile race at the Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko. Harvey feels confident going into this race and is eager to secure a win for New Zealand, a country that has yet to see a homegrown winner in the TMiler since the event introduced the 100-mile distance in 2018. “I am fitter than ever and keen to correct my previous mistakes,” he said, highlighting his determination to perform well on the trails of Tarawera.
A Global Stage
With elite athletes from around the globe participating, including a strong Japanese contingent and competitors from the UK, the 2024 Tarawera Ultra-Trail promises to deliver thrilling races for both men and women. The stakes are high, as the top three finishers in the TMiler not only earn the championship title but also gain entry into the 2026 UTMB World Series Finals in Chamonix, France. This makes the competition all the more riveting for both amateur and professional participants.
