Cameron Harcourt. Photo supplied.Ashburton local, Cameron Harcourt is putting no extra pressure on himself ahead of this weekend’s Coast to Coast, other than to make sure he enjoys himself.

Thirty-year-old Harcourt is making his debut in the two-day individual challenge, which begins at 7am tomorrow morning on Kumara Beach, after doing the mountain run last year.

After competing last year, Harcourt set himself the challenge to make the next step up 12 months later and he’s happy to say he’s going to make it to that starting line and then the rest is up to fate.

Just getting there and being prepared has been a challenge in itself though and required a learning of a completely new skill.

“I didn’t really know how to kayak, so I’ve had to put a bit of time into that,” Harcourt said.

“I managed to get qualified with my grade two and have done some big runs up the Waimakariri and Rakaia gorges as well as some training out at Lake Hood.

“It’s been completely new to me, but I’ve enjoyed it.”

Harcourt was making the long trek over to the coast this morning and spent most of Wednesday preparing and getting everything packed.

He’ll have the support of his parents and girlfriend while he makes his way through the centre of the South Island but all he’s worried about at the moment is getting a decent night’s sleep.

“I’ve never been too good at getting sleep before big events, even rugby games and stuff growing up I’ve struggled.

“So, if I can get a good night of sleep into me I think I’ll be right.”

The former Ashburton College student has had the added advantage in training of being able to do it alongside a group of other locals who are also taking part which has helped with the preparation – but he knows once the gun goes off, it’s every man for himself.

“That first stage, on the bike, will be the trickiest bit I think – it’s all go for that bit.

“Once I get off the bike and into the run, then I reckon I will be alright – I’ll be able to enjoy it a lot more and relax.”

While he’s not adding to the hype by putting a time or a placing on his wish list – Harcourt would like to think he could manage to finish in the top half of the field.

“That’s realistic I think, if I can do that I’ll be pretty happy.

“I’ll be pretty happy when I get to about 100 metres off the finish line too, I reckon.”

The two-day event begins tomorrow morning and competitors are expected to be making their way down the Canterbury Plains on Saturday afternoon.

By Matt Markham © The Ashburton Guardian - 8 February 2018