CYCLING

Cycle challenge goes up a gear for New Zealand charities

By HGB

Cyclists and celebrities from all over New Zealand have just one week of training left before taking to the start line of the 8th annual BDO Wellington to Auckland Cycle Challenge.

Organised by New Zealand cycling events specialists, Dynamo Events, the 2016 challenge will see over 180 cyclists, including 15 corporate teams, make their way up the North Island, through some of the country’s most spectacular scenery.

This year, $150,000 will be shared among those charities nominated by the top three corporate teams. Teams include Westpac, riding for the Rescue Helicopter; ASB, riding for St John’s Ambulance; BDO, riding for Variety; and 2 Degrees, riding for Kids Can.

Variety is the official charity for the 2016 event. Previous charities include the Multiple Sclerosis Society, which received over $50,000 in 2014  and 2015 from the race.

Stephen Cox, Race Director and former Olympic and Commonwealth Games cyclist, says  the increase of corporate teams participating has really enhanced the event. “We have a record number of corporate teams in the event this year. This certainly adds to the competitiveness but it’s all for a good cause. Last year ASB won, with monies going to Starship, so we’ll have to wait and see whether or not the team can defend their title.”

The organisers are hoping for good weather for the week, as is TVNZ Breakfast weatherman, Sam Wallace, who will deliver the weather news from the race each morning.

The starter’s flag will wave the peloton off in Lower Hutt on Sunday 14th February, with the first stage finishing at the top of the Rimutaka Hill. Over the week, cyclists will travel through towns and cities including Featherston, Masterton, Palmerston North, Wanganui, Turangi, Taupo and Hamilton before crossing the finish line in the 12th stage on Saturday 20 February in Pukekohe.