GODZone, the world's largest expedition adventure race, has sold out for 2017 within hours of entries opening.
The seven-day race attracts the fittest and maddest of adventurers who cover 530 kilometres, often going without sleeping. It has two racing categories - GZ Pure and GZ Pursuit - and both are full for next year.
GODZone chief executive and race director Warren Bates said teams worldwide rushed to be in the first wave of entry registrations.
"It was fascinating to watch the entries come in every two or three minutes from around the globe," he says, "Everyone is very keen to race in New Zealand."
Organisers waded through entries for seven days and teams were notified on Friday if they had secured a spot.
"The spread is fantastic and the field will be a showcase of world class adventure racers, young Kiwi superstars and newbie teams experiencing their first multiday adventure event," Bates says.
Last year, GODZone had a high-profile participant with ex-All Black Richie McCaw getting involved.
"I do think he has inspired quite a few weekend warriors to step up and have a go," Bates says.
McCaw's team didn't take out the top-spot however - that went to Team Yealands, who finished at midnight after 84 hours of racing.
Next year's race, the largest one yet, will be hosted in Queenstown in 2017 between February 25 and March 4.
"It's been brilliant to see a steady increase of teams signing up for the GZ Pursuit race bringing fresh blood into the sport."
Midnight finish for GODZone adventure race
Video: GODZone competitors 'enjoying gnarliness'
Newshub.
