Clear skies and mild temperatures greeted the 260 competitors who tackled this year's 23rd Routeburn Classic, a 32km race over Fiordland's Routeburn Track, held at the weekend (29 April).

Toby Batchelor, David Haunschmidt and Hamish Elliott. Photo: Supplied

Top honours went to David Haunschmidt, a New Zealand emergency department doctor originally from Scotland, who took out the men's category in an impressive time of 2 hours, 43 minutes, and 45 seconds.

Dunedin's Toby Batchelor finished second (2:45:39) followed by Wanaka's Hamish Elliott (2:54:20).

Kate Morrison, Maia Flint and Maureen Stachowicz. Photo: Supplied

19-year-old Maia Flint from Tauranga took out the women's category in 3 hours, 27 minutes and 28 seconds.

Christchurch's Kate Morrison finished second (3:31:3) while Maureen Stachowicz came third (3:36:1).

Race director Glen Currie was thrilled to welcome a strong field of 260 competitors.

“There were a lot of big smiles coming across the finish line, we hope to see a lot of people return next year."

"The pointy end of the field saw some exciting racing in both the women’s and men’s categories.” Currie said.

The event has become a highlight on the running calendar for both local and international runners, with participants testing themselves against the rugged terrain and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

The Classic was recently acquired by Ultimate Events Productions, which also owns the Coast to Coast and is associated with Ultimate Hikes who run guided walks on the 2-4 day tramping track.

Currie said “We’re really happy to continue a great event this year and look forward to building on it in the future!”