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Ben Wilkes leading Gucci (L) and Diane Livingston leading Vivienne run along 90 Mile Beach during the final day of the the Great North Gallop on April 21, 2025 in Houhora, New Zealand. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Northland's wild beaches and dense forests, the Born to Run Great Northern Gallop is a one-of-a-kind 100km multi-day adventure race where participants run or walk alongside spirited miniature ponies. Each day covers 25km across terrain rarely open to the public, with runners and their tiny equine partners navigating stretches of the iconic 90 Mile Beach and remote wilderness, all while wild horses may be glimpsed roaming free. Evenings are spent camping near the coast, fostering camaraderie under the stars, and every team—whether seasoned athletes or families—receives training and support, ensuring both runners and ponies are cared for. Chloe Phillips-Harris organises the annual event to raise funds for the welfare of miniature horses in her care. She rescues and rehabilitates at least 15 ponies a year and takes them from crippling lameness, starvation and neglect to running 100km over four days. Chloe says the event takes people out of their comfort zone and shows how robust and capable these horses can be. (Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)
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