8K Classic
The 8k Classic course has been a staple of local running for many years and was the course used for the original “Coatesville Fun Run” for almost twenty years from the late 80s. The official classic 8k differs only from the traditional “block run” with the addition of a short out-and-back section in Donaldson Drive to make the course an accurate 8k (what US and UK runners would refer to as a “five miler”). The entire course is closed to traffic (*) making for a true (and very rare) running experience – the Coatesville Half Marathon is a road race, not a footpath fun run. The course has our very own “Heartbreak Hill”, some easy rollers in the middle and a long downhill run into the finish.
* Whilst all roads are closed to normal traffic, we cannot guarantee the course will be completely traffic free. Residents, emergency vehicles and race support vehicles all may be on the course at various times during the event.
A classic tour of the rural countryside.
Course Description
Mahoenui & Ridge: 0 – 3km
The first 2km of the route will get your legs working and the blood pumping. After a flat start, the road rises gently to the entrance to Dotcom Mansion. From the gates of Dotcom Mansion, Mahoenui Valley Rd climbs towards Ridge Rd and this 600 metre long section is our very own ‘Heartbreak Hill’ – fortunately it arrives at just the right time with the legs warmed up but plenty of gas still in the tank.
Ridge to Coateville Heights: 3 – 6 km
A couple of rolling hills will take you to the right hand turn into Glenmore Road and a flat section takes you to the out-and-back on Donaldson Drive. The Aid Station at the end of Donaldson will revive your spirits and gentle uplhill to the 6km mark opposite Coatesville Heights marks the high point of the course. It is all downhill from here!
Glenmore: 6 – 8 km
It’s all downhill from the 6km mark, gentle at first but getting steeper as you draw closer to the village. On the final section of Glenmore Road, you’ll be able to hear the sound of the finish line, but keep something in reserve as you still have a little way to go.
The Finish
Enter the Coatesville Pony Club Reserve with around 300 metres to go and follow the white gravel path under the shade trees. A second gate takes you into Coatesville Reserve where your finish line, medal and the cheers of the crowd await. You made it!
IAAF & AIMS Certified
Running Events is proud to say that the Mizuno Coatesville Half Marathon 8km course is IAAF and AIMS measured and certified.
Click here to view the official course measurement certificate.
