CYCLING

Laykold Cup Showdown Set For February 28 At Wellington Velodrome

By Nick Warren

The Laykold Cup, one of the capital’s most prestigious cycling events, is set for a showdown on February 28 at Wellington Velodrome. First held in 1928 in Petone, the 10km track cycling race attracts riders from across the Lower North Island.

The attendance of defending champion Jordan Castle is unconfirmed, which leaves the door wide open for a Wellington rider to win the title for the host city for the first time in years.

Lower Hutt police officer Dan Waluszewski is a good bet having performed consistently throughout the season at weekly Speed League races held at the Wellington Velodrome. Waluszewski finished second last year, but will be challenged by Island Bay’s George Jackson and Te Aro’s Pat Crowe-Rishworth, who in 2015 almost caused a huge upset with a long distance bid for victory that was only overhauled in the last 100m.


Photo © PNP Cycling Club

There will be a supporting programme of races to suit all abilities, with over $1000 in prize money up for grabs. Masters and women will battle for the Stayer’s Cup and Poneke Plate while riders in the under 13, 15 and 17 categories have a number of exciting races including a handicapped Wheelrace Grand Prix to be run over 1500m.

Racing starts at midday, February 28 at the Wellington Velodrome in Hataitai Park. Race entry starts at $5, spectators go free.

More details: http://www.pnp.org.nz/events/laykold-cup-carnival-2/