Intake one 2019 are into Week 16 and on Friday, 24 May the boys completed the 14km Cross-Country race. This is competed on undulating bush tracks and is a tough challenge for anyone.

Usually the run is completed on a large loop track to and from the Tihoi campus, but due to logging in the forest, we are currently running the Waihaha Great Lake trail. This beautiful single track run has stunning views out to Lake Taupo, then follows the Waihaha River to the car park off state highway 32. The 14km race is the final build up to the personal challenge of the half marathon – Tihoi boys take on the half marathon as a personal challenge on the day before graduation from the programme.

Running is a part of daily life at Tihoi. Humans evolved to run, so it is something every one of us can do and it is relatively inexpensive. In our busy lives, running is time efficient – the minute you step out the door the exercise begins. The Tihoi running programme is progressive, with the boys beginning with 3-4km runs, three times per week and building up to regular hour long training sessions. The benefits of running are well documented; improving physical and mental health! Having the time to go for a run in the bush, on a regular basis, is a privilege at Tihoi that the staff appreciate and the boys learn to appreciate.

After a busy school day, going for a run gives us time to think and process the day. It makes us happier, even if getting out there is a struggle at first. It is a joy to watch the boys gain in fitness, self-esteem and to experience the physical and mental benefits of running. Intake One 2019 are setting their sights on the half marathon – to be run on Friday, 14 June. The huge majority of students are determined to complete this challenge and hopefully they will continue to include running as part of their lives on return to the Hamilton campus.