The Spectacle: A World-Class Running Festival born in Nelson
The Spectacle, an upcoming running festival set to take place from December 13 to 15, 2024, in Nelson, New Zealand, is no ordinary event. Created by passionate runners for all who love the sport, it brings together the worlds of trail and road running to attract everyone from weekend joggers to elite Olympians. The vision for The Spectacle grew from founders Michael Cochrane, Julian Matthews and Annika Pfitzinger’s shared passion for running, community and the stunning natural scenery of Nelson. With courses stretching from 1 mile to 100 miles, The Spectacle promises to make a lasting impression on both its participants and the local community.
For Cochrane, a Nelson native, Matthews a Nelsonian Olympian and Pfitzinger, who hails from a family of Olympians, the event embodies their combined love for running and their desire to bring a world-class running festival to Nelson. “The Spectacle is a dream come true,” says Cochrane. “We’ve created this event to be more than just a race; it’s a celebration of athleticism, community, and everything that makes Nelson special.” Nelson’s trails, scenic landscape, and thriving central city, make it an ideal location for such an event, he adds. “There are very few places in the world where you can transition from rugged trails to the heart of a vibrant city like this.”
The Spectacle’s format includes events for runners of all experience levels, making it as inclusive as it is challenging. From the high-octane mile to the demanding 100-mile ultramarathon, the event spans a wide range of distances. Pfitzinger, who grew up in a family of runners and pursued her own career in athletics, notes that this inclusivity was essential to their vision. “We wanted to create an event that everyone could feel part of,” she explains. “It’s not just for seasoned runners; it’s for families, newcomers, and seasoned athletes alike. Everyone can join in and share the same finish line.”
The founders have included a 100km race and a 100-mile ultramarathon, two of the more gruelling races that attract a unique community of ultra-endurance athletes. “Trail running has this culture of camaraderie and resilience,” says Cochrane, who is himself an ultra-runner. “People can be out there for up to 43 hours, pushing themselves to their limits but also connecting with others in a way you don’t often see in competitive sports.” The trail courses will wind through Nelson’s lush landscapes, including the stunning Grampians, a location that encapsulates the natural beauty of the area.
What sets The Spectacle apart is its ambitious vision to create not just a running event but a true festival of athleticism and local culture. With a series of entertainment options throughout the weekend, the event will transform Nelson’s central city into a lively hub for both participants and spectators. A standout element of the weekend is the concert by The Black Seeds, one of New Zealand’s most iconic bands, performing in Nelson for the first time in years. “We wanted to bring something special to Nelson that goes beyond running,” says Cochrane. “The Black Seeds concert will create an incredible atmosphere and give everyone—from serious runners to their supporters—a reason to come out and celebrate.”
The idea of merging a high-energy festival with a premier sporting event, could become a significant draw for the town. “We want people to have an unforgettable experience,” Cochrane says. “Whether they’re running, cheering from the sidelines, or just enjoying the festivities, The Spectacle is about bringing people together.”
The Spectacle also promises to put Nelson on the international map. The event will welcome elite athletes from around the world, including renowned Olympic miler Sam Tanner, who has represented New Zealand in two Olympic Games. Other international runners, such as Neil Gourley from the United Kingdom and Georgia Griffith from Australia, will be competing, creating an elite lineup that is rarely seen outside of large global events. “It’s an exciting time for Nelson,” says Matthews. “We’re welcoming some of the best runners in the world, and they’ll get to experience what makes this place unique.”
This element of international competition is not without challenges, as coordinating with runners’ busy schedules is no easy feat. The Spectacle’s date in mid-December was carefully chosen to align with the athletic calendar, giving elite runners time to travel to New Zealand from their own domestic seasons. “The timing was critical,” Matthews explains. “We’re competing with global events, so we had to ensure that we fit into their schedules. The support we’ve received from athletes and organisers around the world has been fantastic, which shows just how special Nelson is as a destination.”
The Spectacle isn’t just about running; it also represents a strategic initiative to support Nelson’s local economy and highlight the city as a destination for events. The event will take place during Nelson’s shoulder season, a time when the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors typically experience a lull. “It’s really about making an impact for our city,” Cochrane emphasises. “Hosting an event of this scale can provide a major economic boost, and we’re working closely with the Nelson City Council, local businesses, the Chamber of Commerce and Uniquely Nelson, to make it a win for everyone.”
The support from local organisations has been overwhelming. Nelson’s Mayor, Nick Smith, an avid runner himself, has been a strong advocate for the event. “Having Mayor Smith’s support has been invaluable,” says Pfitzinger. “His enthusiasm for running and commitment to Nelson have really helped us gain traction.” The festival’s partnerships with local businesses, including hotels, retailers, and restaurants, are part of a comprehensive plan to ensure the event has a positive ripple effect across the community.
Looking to the future, Cochrane, Matthews and Pfitzinger envision The Spectacle as a recurring event that will continue to grow, attracting even more runners and visitors each year. They hope that it will become a fixture on the international running circuit, bringing thousands to Nelson annually. “We’re thinking long-term,” says Cochrane. “This isn’t just about one year; it’s about creating something sustainable and memorable for Nelson. We’re already planning 2025, and we expect it to be even bigger.”
Pfitzinger, who also coaches young athletes in Nelson, sees the festival as an opportunity to inspire the next generation. “For me, this is about showing young people what’s possible,” she says. “When they see world-class athletes running through their hometown, it leaves a lasting impact. It’s a reminder that they too can achieve great things.”
With registration open to all and volunteer opportunities available, The Spectacle invites everyone to join the excitement, either as participants, spectators, or supporters. “We welcome everyone,” says Cochrane. “If you can run, walk, or just cheer, there’s a place for you here.”
For more information, visit The Spectacle’s website, where you can find details on registration, volunteering, and the weekend’s full schedule. As Cochrane puts it, “This December, Nelson won’t just be hosting a race—it will be showcasing a spectacle of endurance, community, and the spirit of running.”
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