Get pedalling. Entries are now open for the Martinborough Charity Fun Ride on Sunday 3 November. That gives recreational cyclists two months to tune up their legs and lungs to participate.
“It’s not a race,” says organiser Geoff Lankow. “The majority of participants just want to enjoy getting out around “a varied, interesting course” of either 48km or 115km.
“Keen cyclists use this ride as part of their training for the more demanding Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge later in the month, because it’s longer than most fun rides.
“The course runs through some very attractive countryside, including Martinborough grapevines, and the city-based riders really enjoy that. “It’s not flat but not too hilly (I call it undulating) and Millers Hill is quite a testing climb with a fast downhill stretch,” he explained.
The Charity Fun Ride is celebrating 21 years in 2013, and during that time has raised over $150,000 for the Martinborough Volunteer Fire Brigade and South Wairarapa Order of St John.
The Martinborough ride is popular with cyclists for its personal and friendly style, say regular participants. Afterwards the cyclists relax around the Square and Town Hall lawn, enjoying a barbecue and spot prizes from local businesses and supporters.
Although the ride takes place in all weathers, mostly the weather has been fine and dry. Online entries are available on www.mcfr.org.nz; late entries can be made at the Town Hall on the day.
