Central Otago Wakatipu Cycle Club (COWCC) has rolled up to save the Lake Dunstan Cycle Challenge this summer, after the Cromwell Summer Series was put on hold.

The cycle challenge, to be held on January 11, is a 90km sealed road circuit around Lake Dunstan from Cromwell, via Northburn, Tarras, Luggate and back via the Wānaka Rd. 

Club cyclist Chris Neville, COWCC committee member Eddie Adams and COWCC president Andy Gillies. PHOTO: Supplied

COWCC president Andy Gillies said it was a great event for the region as well as to encourage more people into cycling.

“It's also an optimal time of year to hold an event with so many visitors in Central Otago mid summer.”

“The revival of the event was only announced, [four] days ago, and is yet to be shared across the wider cycling and sporting community . . . We hope to attract more than 100 entries, similar to last year, but we are beginning promotion two months later than usual,” Andy said.

The race is unique - riders of all abilities race together and start together (not staggered based on previous performance), and there are several spots for supporters to watch the action.

“The 'grand depart' from Forage Cafe in Cromwell down to the turning towards Tarras will be a great spot to generate some atmosphere for the riders as this part of the ride is neutral (no racing until after the bridge). Then of course the lead up to the finish on Shortcut Road,

Cromwell, will also be a fab spot to add to the energy.’’.

One of the draws of the event was that less experienced riders had the opportunity to race alongside some of the best cyclists in the region and the country, Andy said.

“Picks [could be] of any of the local New Zealand Cycling Project sponsored riders (including locals James Williamson and Eddie Adams), returning riders from overseas, someone like Tour of Southland winner Josh Burnett, or last year's second place rider Justin Stott (who's just

won two age grade world championships at 50 years old) - it's truly a race that's open for any number of riders.”

Local lads to watch are (from left) Chris Neville, club committee members James (Jimmy) Williamson and Eddie Adams. PHOTO: Supplied 

Andy’s advice to entrants for race day: “Remember it's 90km so don't go out too hard, too fast. Prepare to eat and hydrate through the race. 

“Be mindful of cycle race safety and your own ability - wherever possible, especially if new to racing, find a group you can stick with and work along with during the race. Ahead of the race, be sure you have or are capable of covering the distance.”

There are cash prizes for the top three female and male finishers, along with trophies, medals and spot prizes.

Taking on the event at this late stage is a financial risk for the club, so covering costs is a priority and any unexpected profits would be injected into the club’s activities to promote cycling in the region, Andy said.

Central Otago Wakatipu Cycle Club currently has riders from Alexandra, Cromwell, Queenstown and Wānaka and caters for all abilities from beginners to youngsters and elite riders.

The club races alternate weekends until late April and this season has introduced Thursday night track racing in Cromwell. 

If you are interested in volunteering on January 11 get in touch via Central Otago Wakatipu Cycle Club Facebook page. 

Read more: Cromwell Summer Series on hold, running events on rise

Read more: Low entries blow to Goldrush, Prospector

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