Cycling the coast and country

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The helmets and lycra are on as hundreds of cyclists pump the pedals along the east coast this morning for the fourth annual BOP Coast ‘n' Country Cycle Challenge.

About 300 cyclists are taking part in the BOP Coast ‘n' Country Cycle Challenge. Photos by: Cameron Avery.

Setting off from Mount Maunganui College this morning, cyclists are now making their way between Mount Maunganui and Whakatane.

They have a choice of either completing a 100km scenic ride from Mount Maunganui to Whakatane – or a 50km cycle from Pukehina Primary School.

The 100km ride encompasses Te Puke and Paengaroa, on Old Coach Rd to Pukehina Primary School.

Riders then cycle back along the coast on State Highway 2, passing the picturesque beach line to Matata and on to Whakatane, before a sprint finish outside Morpeth Park.

Organiser Steve Hall says about 300 riders have entered in the fourth annual cycle.

'It's probably similar numbers to what we had in year two. At the end of the day it's always controlled by the weather – and we got lucky with the weather today.”

Steve says the aim of the event is to give local riders an event at home rather than having to go out of town.

The event also raised about $2000 for Waipuna Hospice, says Steve.

The 50 km race from Pukehina School begins 10am. Both rides finish at Rex Morpeth Park, Whakatane.

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3 comments

You know my opinion of cyclists

Posted on 24-05-2015 11:00 | By How about this view!

Let the compliments of their wonderful attitude toward other road users flow. Once again we will all be expected to alter OUR schedules and daily planning for 300 Lycra louts, whilst they take over the roads, including a State Highway, for goodness sake!


Reply to

Posted on 24-05-2015 15:56 | By Cinders

Serious! On yer bike. Try it you might like it. And while you're at it you might get fit and meet people and eventually you may even look good in Lycra!


Cinders

Posted on 25-05-2015 10:04 | By How about this view!

Cyclist always fall back on the tired and worn-out reasoning for cycling: Health, enjoying the countryside and my favorite has always been SAVING THE PLANET.... They don't ever think further than their handlebars!!


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