20 Year Milestone for Fun Ride

For pedalling 115km around Martinborough on 28 October, a lucky cyclist and companion will spend a night in luxury, with complimentary dinner, at Wharekauhau Lodge.
 
Celebrating the 20th Martinborough Charity Fun Ride, organiser Geoff Lankow of Martinborough says “this fantastic spot prize could be won by any rider: maybe he or she rode 48km or the full distance, a regular or a newcomer, fast or slow. Everyone has the chance, thanks to Foley Family Wines.”
 
Geoff says about 12,000 riders have participated in the Fun Ride over the 20 years.  It is used by many regulars as a tune-up for the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge the following month. 
 
“Riders love the course, with good back-country roads and plenty of variety.  Most are reasonably experienced and do the full 115km, but introducing the 48km course for recreational riders has worked well and encouraged new participants.
 
“We stress this is not a race, it’s a fun ride,” he said.  “For many participants, finishing is a real achievement.  We are keen to promote cycling as part of a healthy lifestyle”.
 
Jan and Geoff Lankow have the right credentials.  Geoff is a former New Zealand Road Racing Champion, and Jan a cycling medallist at the Masters Games.  They run the fun ride on a voluntary basis, and their involvement was a reason to move to Martinborough in 2000.
 
Since that time they focused on local charities, raising more than $120,000 for the local Volunteer Fire Brigade and South Wairarapa Order of St John.
 
“In turn, the Fire Brigade helps us on the day by providing a lead vehicle, putting people on the main corners and firing up the barbecue for Scottie’s famous venison patties at lunch for the riders. The local community is very supportive with help, products and spot prizes,” he concluded.
 
Online entries are open now, on www.mcfr.org.nz.