Coast to Coast title could be too close to call

Coast to Coast is one of the most iconic events in New Zealand — a gruelling 243 kilometre multi-sport race the width of the South Island.

Race director Glen Currie's expecting the race to be tighter than ever in the Longest Day.

"These ladies are racing for 12 hours and the top three can finish within five minutes of each other which is quite amazing really," he said.

"I'm predicting the same for the men this year. I think it'll be one of the tightest races in the top five we've seen in years," he said.

Among those vying for the title is Tasmania's Alex Hunt, who came third in 2023.

When asked what keeps him coming back, Hunt replied: "Good question — a question I've asked myself more in the last few weeks than I ever have in my life."

But ultimately, he wants to win. So much so, he's spent the summer in New Zealand spending crucial time on the course.

"It's scary when I think about how much time and money I've spent over the past seven or eight years I've been doing it but this year I've upped my game," he said.

"I came here six weeks before the race and have been staying in various people's houses. It's been really beneficial."

Should Hunt get across the line, he'd be the first Australian to win the event since John Jacoby in 1993.

"He's a hard nut — a man that demands respect," Hunt said of Jacoby.

The same could be said for anyone doing the Longest Day — especially Fiona Dowling, who's seeking the women's title in her 10th attempt.

"I know in order to get the win on this course, especially with such a strong field, you have to really have a good day," she said.

"That's probably what's going to be most rewarding that [should you win], you've put in the hard work."

The two-day teams and individual events, as well as the mountain run over Goat Pass, starts tomorrow.

The Longest Day athletes will line up on Kumara Beach at first light on Saturday.