Westlake Adventure Racers Win North Island Hillary Challenge Qualifier
Congratulations to our combined Westlake Girls and Westlake Boys adventure racing teams, who recently competed in the North Island Hillary Challenge Qualifier held in the Rotorua Redwoods Forest. Out of 26 teams from across the region, our top team claimed 1st place, while our second team finished a very creditable 11th, a fantastic result for both teams.
The six-hour event tested every aspect of endurance, navigation, and teamwork. Each team of eight students covered approximately 25km on foot and 30km on mountain bikes, navigating through rugged terrain using only a map and compass in a fast-paced rogaine format. It was a true challenge of physical grit, strategic planning, and relentless teamwork.
Our winning team of Milly Knox Haines, Sasha Bosch, Talia Hosking and Emma Davies (alongside their Westlake Boys teammates) showed exceptional composure and strength throughout the course, securing a well-deserved victory and earning Westlake a spot at the National Hillary Challenge Final in October, a five-day event where the top 12 teams from across Aotearoa will compete for the national title. Our 11th-placed team of Cayleigh Blackburn, Ella Wernham, Tessa Walker and Grace Swanson also performed with great determination and spirit, representing Westlake with pride and pushing themselves to the limit. This success reflects the hours of training these students put in before and after school, honing their navigation, mountain biking, and fitness in preparation for the event.
A special shoutout to Milly Knox Haines and Ella Wernham, who showed exceptional dedication by travelling down to Rotorua at 4am after attending the school ball and still gave their all throughout the race, an inspiring example of commitment to their team and the sport. Another notable mention is Grace Swanson stepping up as a junior to compete in the senior competition last minute, she was amazing on the course with her team.
A huge thank you to the dedicated staff, coaches, and parent supporters who helped prepare and support the teams, your contribution made this achievement possible. Well done to all our adventure racers, you’ve done Westlake proud. Ka mau te wehi!