Rotten weather no bother for Masters cyclists

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 572, 7 February 1995, Page 1

Rotten weather no bother for Masters cyclists

Veteran cyclists from all round New Zealand raced into Ohakune last Thursday and out again Friday morning, taking part in the National Mutual Cycle Classic race which is part of the Wanganui Master's Games. Almost 1 00 cyclists set off from Ohakune Tyres and Energy Centre's forecourt on Friday morning, taking advantage of the shelter from the heavy rain before heading to Raetihi and down the rain-slick Parapara Highway. That is down from the 1 17 who started the race at Te Awamutu on Wednesday, with 19 pulling out with injuries and mechanical failures. Wednesday' s ride was from Te Awamutu to Mangakino, Thursday's from

Mangakino ihrough Taupo and Turangi and over the Pihanga Saddle ("the biggest hill I've ever riden over" — Tom Bricklebank) and on to Ohakune; and Friday to Upokongaro to regroup for a ride into Wanganui for the start of the Master's Games. Age ranges for the race start from 35, through to the 60-64 group plus a 70 plus group. One participant, Doug Kingsford, is - 79 and still making plans for future races. Wearer of the yellow jersey at Ohakune was Tom Bricklebank, 54, who was 54 seconds ahead of the rest on arrival at Ohakune. He said he was really impressed with the Turn to Page 3

Cycle race FROM PAGE 1 race, which is the second running of it having started in 1993. Despite just five officials the race ran very smoothly. "The riders don't have to worry about a thing, they've (the organisers) have done it all," he said. He said while most people went on about sponsorship, there was no prize money involved in the race. "They're all riding for nothing." However, one aspect that has upset organisers is the lack of services available during their overnight stay in Ohakune. 'The town was closed," said race results man Warrick Funnell. He said he was very disappointed with the reception for the cyclists and their many supporters. The Bulletin understands some restaurateurs are also upset, having not been told that the event was happening. As it is a very quiet time of the year, many are closed.