Keen sportswoman and Wānaka resident Jane Sharman says she is excited to take on a new role as Challenge Wānaka’s trust and event director.

The experienced event manager moved to Wānaka seven years ago and she has held various trust and committee roles and worked at major events like Warbirds over Wānaka and Relay for Life.

”I am so excited to be joining the Challenge Wanaka Team,” Jane said.

“I am passionate about this event and what it means for our community.

“I love the inclusivity of Challenge – ranging from the pro athletes to the primary children and even preschoolers. The recent addition of the adaptive event and the Cross Tri mean that nearly anyone can take part.

“I’m looking forward to learning from the many experienced team members involved and also exploring new ways to further develop Challenge Wanaka in our community.”

Challenge Wānaka board chair Jessica Garrett said Jane was the “standout applicant” from a field of high quality applicants “and the unanimous choice of the trustees”.

“With an exceptional track record in event management, governance and community engagement, we were encouraged by her forward-thinking approach to the role of the trust and our events, and her obvious skills and experience as a leader and motivator,” Jess said.

“We very much look forward to welcoming her to the Challenge Wanaka Team.”

Jess said the board also wanted to thank the “amazing” outgoing race director Bill Roxburgh.

“Bill has been involved in the event for over 17 years and has been instrumental in growing the event into the largest triathlon festival in New Zealand with events for all ages and abilities,” she said.

The next Challenge Wānaka Festival will be held from February 15-17, at Glendhu Station.

The event is organised by the Challenge Wanaka Charitable Trust and incorporates events to suit all abilities and ages.

Find out more here.

PHOTO: Supplied