Local sporting pros Simone Maier and Emily Wilson have confirmed they will once again be racing in the OSM Challenge Wānaka Multi. 

Now in its third year as part of the Integrity Homes Challenge Wānaka Festival, this event - which will take place next month - has quickly become a must-do in the multisport calendar.

Simone, a Wānaka multisport pro, will be back defending her title, having won every year the event has been running. Emily Wilson, who finished third last year, will be hot on her tail. 

“The Wānaka multi course showcases the epic terrain we have right on our doorstep,” Emily said.

Taking place on Saturday October 25, the event features a 25km kayak on Lake Wānaka and down the Clutha River, followed by a 43km mountain bike through single tracks and a 14km trail run along the Wānaka lakefront.

“It is an achievable distance attracting a wide range of people from families, the weekend warrior, and elite athletes alike,” Emily said.

“This diversity and the awesome crew make it a great goal for spring.”

Endurance athlete and coach Dougal Allan won the Challenge Wānaka Multi in 2020.

The event highlights the best of the Upper Clutha, says Dougal Allan.

He said the event “highlights to me all the best parts around this town”. 

“Paddling on Wānaka and the Clutha River, mountain biking the river trails and running the Outlet and lakeside trails is as good as it gets." 

Entries are still open for the event and prices will increase after September 30. 

As well as the individual event, athletes can take part in a tandem or in teams or two or three. 

Visit the Challenge Wānaka website to enter.

PHOTOS: Supplied