Mal Law

ALTA Trail Coaching helps adventurous runners set and achieve ambitious trail and mountain-running goals. Based around Wanaka, Otago, the coaching business takes its name from nearby Mt Alta, a peak that reflects founder Mal Law’s love of mountains and the sense of achievement that comes from pursuing a long-held challenge.

Mal brings decades of experience training for endurance events and one-off challenges, along with a personal understanding of running outside the elite ranks. A middle-of-the-pack runner who has earned podium finishes in his 50s and 60s, he is especially attuned to the needs of recreational runners and athletes advancing in age.

ALTA focuses on trail running with an adventurous edge: elevation, challenging terrain and, sometimes, a peak. Coaching is suited to goals ranging from 5K to more than 100 miles, provided adventure is at the heart of the undertaking. Through coaching and mentoring, Mal aims to help clients prepare for and complete meaningful goals. The site also shares articles and advice on topics such as race preparation and course knowledge.