Greig Hamilton

About

Greig Hamilton is a New Zealand software engineer and two-time World Rogaining Champion from Christchurch who became the first New Zealander to finish the Barkley Marathons in 2024 on his third attempt, clocking 59:38:42 — just 21 minutes inside the 60-hour cut-off. He describes himself as having been 'abysmal' when he first took up orienteering and rogaining at university, making his ascent to world-level navigational racing and Barkley completion all the more striking. His 2024 finish came after unsuccessful attempts in 2019 and 2022, and he was the third finisher that year alongside Ihor Verys and Karel Sabbe in what became one of the most competitive fields in the event's history. Known as the 'Lesser Spotted Kiwi' for his deliberate avoidance of publicity, Hamilton has channelled his exceptional navigational intelligence and orienteering instincts — rather than conventional ultrarunning credentials — into one of the sport's most coveted finishes.

Notable Wins

• — The Barkley Marathons 2024 (3rd finisher)
• — World Rogaining Championship 2016
• — World Rogaining Championship 2017

Race History