Queen Charlotte Relay postponed

Road damage from the recent flooding has seen the longstanding Queen Charlotte Relay postponed.

The iconic running race from Picton to Havelock along Queen Charlotte Drive was due to go ahead on September 17. Organisers announced today it has been postponed until Saturday, December 3.

There has been considerable damage to roading and infrastructure along the relay route, prompting the organising committee’s decision.

“We have been liaising with Marlborough Roads regularly in the hope our event could still take place,” a spokesperson said.

“The problems have been compounded by the damage to SH6 and SH63 which are important routes between Blenheim and Nelson not only for commerce but the ability for people to move around safely.

“After inspecting the Queen Charlotte Drive by bike on Sunday and talking to Marlborough Roads on Monday a decision was made to postpone the relay.

“A major factor is also we do not want to put unnecessary pressure on the contractors who are doing their best to get the roads open in a safe way to the general public.”

Teams who have already entered and paid the entry fee have a choice. They can be given a refund, less administration fee, or keep their entry for the postponement date.

Organisers ask that the respective team captains email [email protected] quoting the team’s name and which choice they prefer.