by Vaughan Hunt | Feb 2, 2018 | Board Chair's Blog
Check out results here or by following the link on the Gravel and Tar website.
UCI Gravel and Tar Classic 131km
Ethan Berends ( AUS )of Möbius Bridgelane takes the win ahead of Michael Torckler (NZ) of Blindz Direct and Hayden McCormick of the New Zealand national team. Local riders Robert Stannard,Alex, West,Joel, Yates,Jacob, Sievwright and Mitchell Kinghorn contested this tough endurance event where luck plays a major part as punctures and mechanicals can blow your race apart. Media reports reached Italy and other parts of the world with a day of the event.
Gravel and Tar Gran Fondo 70km
Mens over 19 went to Cliff Hughes followed by Brett Ismack in second and John Mudgeway in third. Womens over 19 was won by Lizzy Stannard with Margaret Leyland second and Cheryl Christie in third.
The boys under 19 race winner Madi Hartley Brown was closely followed by Dylan Simpson in second and Jack Edwards in third. Girls under 19, the winner was Rosie Obrien.
Libby Arbuckle in the Sun Tour Australia
What an achievement for Libby Arbuckle racing against some of the best female cyclists in the world at the Sun Tour 2018 in Australia.
Taranaki Cycle Challenge
Many of our club riders travelled to Taranaki last weekend for the around the mountain cycle challenge. In the heat and over a long distance many different category of riders put themselves up the challenge. The feedback from those who competed this year said once again it was tough but a great weekend was had by all in New Plymouth. Congratulations to everyone who rode the challenge.
Gravel and Tar – Thank you.
Bike Manawatu want to thank all of those people who participated and volunteered to help stage our first “Manawatu Festival of Cycling” 2018.
The people of Manawatu should feel proud this unique community event has been a success.
Designed as a community event to promote the health and fitness benefits of cycling to all ages in the wider Manawatu. Bike Manawatu with the help of a the Palmerston City Council, CEDA and SportManawatu along with the support of NZCT,Mainland, Foundation, Lion Foundation and a select number of local businesses partnered to produce a excellent fun filled weekend for cycling fans.
The “Manawatu Festival of Cycling” catered for all ages across five different ride events.
Approximate participants: (315 people)
Main Events: UCI Gravel and Tar Classic. 131km. (11 teams and 55 riders)
Bayleys Gravel and Tar Gran Fondo 70km. (50 riders)
Riverpath Challenge 30km. (20 riders)
Retro Ride- dress up ride on older bikes. (40 riders)
Bike Movie night at the Globe. (80 people)
Mountain Bike Kahuterawa Challenge. (70 riders)
Festival Activities included;
25th January; Manawatu Schools “question and answer” evening at Hotel coachman with the elite UCI international cycling team Möbius Bridgelane was a success. During the week our talented local school cyclist also had the opportunity to go on training rides with the elite teams. A huge learning benefit to our schools.
26th January; The formal welcome to the Manawatu dinner at Hotel Coachman (Pasta Party) for all of the elite UCI cycling teams, managers and our stakeholders and sponsors. The evening went well with 110 people enjoying two hours together.
27th January; “Cycling Central” in George street was closed off and setup for the Festival atmosphere with live all day music. The pre race “Gravel and Tar” team presentations were held on the big stage to resemble a European Cycling Festival with a “Kiwi Flavour”. Later in the day after the “Gravel and Tar” race prize giving acknowledged everyone involved in event and rider interviews.
The vibe throughout the day in George street and the square was excellent and the feedback mainly positive and proud from local people. When interviewed on stage the elite teams confirmed with their audience how much they loved the Manawatu region and being a part of the festive. Most said they will be back next year.
The UCI accredited the “Gravel an Tar Classic with 1.2 status in October 2017 giving Bike Manawatu four months to stage the event. The protocol, standards and scale of holding a UCI event, one of only six UCI events held this end of the world did extend our small clubs resources over the four months.
Of interest has been the incredible national and international attention the “Gravel and Tar Classic” has had which is humbling for our small region. Film footage of the event is currently being edited to showcase the beautiful Manawatu countryside and New Zealand.
“Manawatu Festival of Cycling” – Debrief
Not everyone in the club agreed with our club hosting the event and not everything run smoothly which all events experience. The club have now experienced new heights in event management and are currently debriefing all areas of this event with the future in mind.
We would appreciate helpful and constructive solution-based feedback from members on the following to secretary@bikemanawatu.co.nz
- Would you support riding our local “Manawatu Festival of Cycling” next year. Yes or no?
- Would you ride an event with Gravel in it? Yes or No?
3) What ride events would you like added to the event to encourage you to ride?
4) Would a day of festival entertainment be of value to your day. Yes or No?
5)Would you be a volunteer to help out next event? Yes or no?
Apologise : I have to personally apologise to all Gran Fondo and Riverpath Challenge riders for me not presenting the spot prizes at the prize giving on stage in George street. As a first for me personally, unfortunately the prize giving was long and went into the early evening. I therefore chose not to finish off with the spot prizes as many people had left and the Stage and festival equipment was due to come down.
We do however intend to present them and will notify those spot prize winners.
Kairanga Time trail series starts again.
Bike Manawatu Track Programme 2018
by Vaughan Hunt | Jan 26, 2018 | Board Chair's Blog
After finishing their Five stage New Zealand Cycle Classic Tour in the weekend many of the leading elite cyclists from New Zealand and Australia have arrived in the Manawatu and are now focusing their attention on Bike Manawatu’s UCI Gravel and Tar Classic. Its so great to have them here in our region for the week leading up to the race on Saturday the 27th of January.
This is the main event of our “Manawatu Festival of Cycling“ and already the cycling vibe is exciting. Cycling fans from around the world will be watching with interest these rising star compete in the 131km “Gravel and Tar Classic” that leaves at 1pm from the Palmerston North Square. We are excited to have these star riders here and hope they enjoy their week and the race.
The riders will travel on the Tar road from Palmerston North to Ashhurst past Highland Home through the beautiful Pohangina Countryside and onto 40km of gravel. A tough hard out event these elite riders will be challenged by but will love once they are talking about it afterwards.
Leading local Bike Manawatu riders who now ride at elite level, Robert Stannard (last years winner),Alex West, Joel Yates and Carne Groube are riding for different teams and would love your support.
Otherwise we invite you and your families to be at George street at 11.30am for the introduction of the 11 elite teams on stage before the race at 1pm in front of a enthusiastic crowd of cycling fans. The street is closed off and the vibe we hope will be a little like a European village cycling festival with your help. All day live music while the cafes, restaurants and retails also excite in the day.
At 4.30 after the race we are back to George street for the start of the prizing giving for all three events. On big stage we will recognise 31 different prizes for the UCI race from individual to team prizes followed by the Gran Fondo and Riverpath Challenge prizes and spot prizes.
We would love our cycling community to embrace this day that is unlike any other cycling day we have had before in our region. In the inner city and our stunning Palmerston North square makes for a nice family vibe for all ages.
$2000 worth of prizes for “Gravel and Tar Gran Fondo riders.
Sponsors Bayleys Real Estate and our four City Bike Shops have got together to provide riders in this years Gravel and Tar Gran Fondo 70km ride $500 worth of prizes in four categories.
Ride starts at 1.15pm from Square January 27th for recreational riders.
Mens grade over 19; Bike Barn vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150 3rd $100
Women grade over19. AvantiPlus vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150, 3rd $100
Boys under 19; Central Bicycle Studio vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150 3rd $100
Girls under 19 : Crankit Cycles vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150 3rd $100
Online registration are best a soon as possible and are easy please. Late entries for the Gran Fondo and Riverpath Challenge open on Saturday morning at 7.30am and close at 9am at Cyclista Cafe on George street.
“Manawatu Festival of Cycling”-Saturday 27 January ACTIVITIES.
Check out video www.facebook.com/TeamJVLatbayleys.
The party starts at “Cycling Central” from 7.30am on Saturday the 27th of January which involves closing off George Street from Cyclista Cafe to Moxies Cafe. Green carpet will be laid on the road to cordon off the Cycling Central Festival and the street party will begin. All retailers in George Street are totally enthusiastic towards helping this fun event succeed. All we need is more rider entries for the Gran Fondo and Riverpath Challenge to help boost numbers.
The big stage setup on George street will be ready to introduce the Pro riders and team at 11.45am before they make their way to the start line at 1pm outside I SITE on the Palmerston North square. Followed by the start of the Gran Fondo ride at 1.15pm and The River Path Challenge at 1.30pm
Lead by the police and six international race commissaires (referees) the UCI Gravel and Tar pro Race will travel up through Ashhurst the beautiful Pohangina Valley showcasing the Manawatu region to the world followed by media and film crew capturing drone and film footage.
The 131km race is expected to finish at Memorial Park at 4.15pm and the official prize presentation starts at 4.45pm on Stage at Cycling Central in George street where we are hoping the cycling vibe of a European Cycling Village event can be felt in Palmy. The more friends you can bring along the better.
27th January day activities time line
Where; “Cycling Central” -George Street
7am to 9am: Late entries for 70km Gran Fondo and 30km Riverpath Challenge
9.45am : Retro Ride Start
9.45am Ongoing entertainment (Musicians) on Stage for the day.
11.30; Introducing the UCI Pro Team Managers and Pro race Teams on stage.
1pm: Start of UCI Gravel and Tar 131km Race from I Site on the square.
1.15pm: Start of Gravel and Tar Gran Fondo 70km ride.
1.30pm: Start of Gravel and Tar River Path Challenge 30km ride
3pm: Riverpath Challenge Finish-Memorial Park
3.30pm; Gran Fondo Finish-Memorial Park
4.15pm; UCI Pro Race Finish-Memorial Park
4.45pm; UCI Pro Race 1st,2nd,3rd Ceremony -on stage Cycling Central -George street
5pm: Riverpath Challenge Prize Giving-on stage Cycling Central -George street
5.15pm; Gran Fondo Prize Giving- on stage Cycling Central-George street.
5.30pm ;UCI teams and Individual prize giving.
Locals Perform well at “New Zealand Cycle Classic”
In one of the most exciting finishes to the five stage UCI 2.2 New Zealand Cycle classic, NZ National team rider Hayden McCormick wins over Robert Stannard who was awarded the best under 23 rider. In the NZ winning team is photo local rider Joel Yates and former PNBHS rider Luke Mudgeway. This week they compete again for the honours at our “UCI Gravel and Tar”. An exciting prospect not to be missed.
Team Möbius Bridgelane speak to school cyclist.
Bike Manawatu invited Elite Cycling team Team Möbius Bridgelane to speak to our schools cycling members for night of learning at Hotel Coachman while in our city for the week. Team manager Tom Petty and his team uncovered what life was like behind the scenes as an elite cyclist and how to mentally and tactically prepare to become an elite cyclist for a living. Local star Robert Stannard also added a wealth of experience to the night. An excellent learning for our young talented school cyclists. We thank Tom and team Möbius Bridgelane for their willingness to share such amazing knowledge.
by James Denholm | Jan 19, 2018 | Board Chair's Blog
At last Sunday’s Bike Manawatu’s ride five of us tested out the Gravel and Tar 70km Gran Fondo course.We all rode with some anxiety before leaving memorial park as the gravel section was an unknown to us.We are pleased to report the gravel section on midland road off valley road Colyton was actually really good as was the section on watershed road.Riding the right lines took a few kms to get used to but we all loved it.The ride back past Hiwinui school via Ashhurst and home on the Tar was fast and fun as well.
Once experienced, the anxiety of gravel is gone and the beautiful country road scenery so close to the city is all we remember.No flat tyres,no fall offs,and bikes only a bit dusty. A cool experience. Thank you club members Steve Harley,Roy Hughes,Chris Pinkney and Ross Rainham.
Sponsors Bayleys Real Estate and our four City Bike Shops have got together to provide riders in this years Gravel and Tar Gran Fondo 70km ride $500 worth of prizes in four categories.
Ride starts at 1.15pm from Square January 27th for recreational riders.
Mens grade over 19; Bike Barn vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150 3rd $100
Women grade over19. AvantiPlus vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150, 3rd $100
Boys under 19; Central Bicycle Studio vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150 3rd $100
Girls under 19 : Crankit Cycles vouchers to the value of 1st $250 2nd $150 3rd $100
Online registration are best as soon as possible and are easy please.Late entries for the Gran Fondo and Riverpath Challenge open on Saturday morning at 7.30am and close at 9am at Cyclista Cafe on George street.
Check out video www.facebook.com/TeamJVLatbayleys.
The party starts at “Cycling Central” from 7.30am on Saturday the 27th of January which involves closing off George Street from Cyclista Cafe to Moxies Cafe. Green carpet will be laid on the road to cordon off the Cycling Central Festival and the street party will begin.All retailers in George Street are totally enthusiastic towards helping this fun event succeed. All we need is more rider entries for the Gran Fondo and Riverpath Challenge to help boost numbers.
The big stage setup on George street will be ready to introduce the Pro riders and team at 11.45am before they make their way to the start line at 1pm outside I SITE on the Palmerston North square.Followed by the start of the Gran Fondo ride at 1.15pm and The River Path Challenge at 1.30pm
Lead by the police and six international race commissaires (referees) the UCI Gravel and Tar pro Race will travel up through Ashhurst the beautiful Pohingina Valley showcasing the Manawatu region to the world followed by media and film crew capturing drone and film footage.
The 131km race is expected to finish at Memorial Park at 4.15pm and the official prize presentation starts at 4.45pm on Stage at Cycling Central in George street where we are hoping the cycling vibe of a European Cycling Village event can be felt in Palmy.The more friends you can bring along the better.
27th January day activities time line;
Where; “Cycling Central” -George Street
7am to 9am: Late entries for 70km Gran Fondo and 30km Riverpath Challenge
9.45am : Retro Ride Start
9.45am Ongoing entertainment (Musicians) on Stage for the day.
11.45am; Introducing the UCI Pro Team Managers and Pro race Teams on stage.
1pm: Start of UCI Gravel and Tar 131km Race from I Site on the square.
1.15pm: Start of Gravel and Tar Gran Fondo 70km ride.
1.30pm: Start of Gravel and Tar River Path Challenge 30km ride
3pm: Riverpath Challenge Finish-Memorial Park
3.30pm; Gran Fondo Finish-Memorial Park
4.15pm; UCI Pro Race Finish-Memorial Park
4.45pm; UCI Pro Race Prize Giving -on stage Cycling Central -George street
5pm: Riverpath Challenge Prize Giving-on stage Cycling Central -George street
5.30pm; Gran Fondo Prize Giving- on stage Cycling Central-George street.
6pm-9pm; On going Entertainment along with Interviews
7.30pm; Cycling Film Festival – Globe Theatre.
Checking out the amazing results of events our club riders have been involved in is great to follow.
Alex West & Robert Stannard pictured racing in 2017
NZ Elite Road Nationals-Napier January 5th to 7th. www.eliteroadnationals.nz
Hub Tour of Hawkes Bay results- January 12th to 14th. www.ramblers.co.nz
The New Zealand Cycle Classic-Wairarapa- January 16th to 21st. www.roadcycling.co.nz
Wednesday Cyclists “Loving It”
Every single Wednesday morning all year round a hardy group of Bike Manawatu members are carrying on the long term tradition of our Wednesday Cyclists group.The group leaves at 6.30am opposite the BP service station on Fitzherbert to tick the legs over and complete a 90km fun ride broken up with a coffee and banter in Feilding. Anyone can join in on the fun and the return time is approximately 10.30am.
A great group of loyal people and characters who have become friends that have to put up with plenty of jib along the way from the more forward characters in the group.We mention no names….
by Vaughan Hunt | Dec 22, 2017 | Board Chair's Blog
What’s Next “The Manawatu Festival of Cycling”
When:- Saturday January 27th
Where; Start from the square on Palmerston North. Registration packs will be collected from Cyclist Cafe -George street in the morning.
Time; Start times from 1.15pm
Party/Prize Giving; George street. Times to be confirmed.
Registrations; http://www. gravelandtar.com and courses.
Check out all the finer details about the three events on the above online address and register today.
Also check our video interview with last year’s winner Robert Stannard, race organiser Steve Stannard and riders Carne Grouse and Rosie Obrien about what the “Gravel and Tar” means to them.@teamjvlatbaylets
Three “Gravel and Tar” Events for everyone.
Three “Gravel and Tar” events will be on Saturday January 27th 2018 following the New Zealand cycle Classic a week earlier.
The headline event, the “Gravel and Tar Classic” will attract professional riders and teams from all over the world who have travelled to Australia and New Zealand seeking UCI points early in the International season. The world will live streaming the beautiful Manawatu which is a coup for New Zealand and Bike Manawatu. It is expected New Zealand’s best trade teams will participate and will be hard pressed against the Australian and Asian based teams, continental and pro continental teams.
Alongside with the “Gravel and Tar”, and to support our “Manawatu Festival of Cycling Weekend” a Gran Fondo (sportive)ride will be held over 70km.This is to give riders of all ages, levels and genders the opportunity to ride as part of the course the elite men will be riding. Crossing the international finish line will be exciting.
There is also a 30km fun ride called the River path Challenge for the recreational riders like Mums, Dads, Kids and Grand Parents which is flat with a few easy gravel sections.
Enter online: http://www.gravelandtar.com
1) UCI 125km Manawatu Gravel and Tar Classic-International teams. Starts 1.30pm
2) The 70km Gran Fondo- All ages and abilities $55 per person: Start 1.15pm
3) The 35 River path Challenge- All ages and abilities.$35 per person: Start 1.30pm
Being awarded a UCI (1.2 level) International race is a big deal for New Zealand and the Manawatu. The “Manawatu Gravel and Tar Classic” has been running for two years and to get UCI accreditation has been described in rugby terms like holding a Super 15 Rugby final here in the Manawatu year after year. It’s that big.
Bike Manawatu are hoping our members and the community will embrace and support the beginning of something special for our region.
The “Manawatu Festival of Cycling Weekend”. The stage is set for us all to build on year after year hoping to create our own “Cycling Festival” for everyone in the region and beyond to enjoy. Often cyclists have to travel away to events and pay for accommodation and entry fees upwards of $100 versus staying and supporting our local events and only pay $55.
Bike Manawatu’s concept on the “Weekend Festival of Cycling” on the 27th and 28th of January is perfect timing for families at the end of the school Holidays before returning to schools. Consider how the Lake Taupo Cycling Challenge got started all those years ago and where it is today.
Happy Xmas and New year message to Members.
2017 has been an extremely busy year for our cycling mad region. Being one of the fastest growing sports on the planet people all ages are buying a bike for many different reasons but mostly to stay fit and healthy.
The Manawatu is a great place to ride a bike and Bike Manawatu are conscious we as members need to help others learn the road safety rules and rider etiquette at the outset. We all started riding a bike nervously in the beginning and people like you now must help others gain confidence in how to ride in a group and stay safe. Being a ride leader is our responsibility.
The club has a proud history across all categories of riding. Recreational riders and the many rides and friendships they make, to racing a bike where club events include a 52 week calendar of events including; Track in Feilding, Road Races in the Manawatu, Criteriums at Manfeild and Time Trials at Karangi that all cater for our amazing schools and masters riders to enjoy.
Our schools, Masters and Elite rides go off and compete locally, nationally and internationally and continue to bring home medals that make us all proud. We congratulate all of those people.
It takes the riders to participate and it takes a band of amazing volunteers and organisers to help during the 12 months of the year for our club to offer these events. Hats what club unity is all about.
People still ask me why they should be a club member of Bike Manawatu for $45 per year. I say to them being part of a club able to do all the things available to them and make friends along the way is why. Without a club what would cycling in the Manawatu look like I ask them.
Congratulations to everyone associated with cycling in the club on what you have achieved on or off the bike for 2017.Success is a beautiful word and everyone has experienced it in one way or another this year. Pat yourself on the back for your own personal achievements. You deserve it.
On behalf of the Bike Manawatu Board of Mike Carine, Tim Lloyd, Alex Denholm, Peter McCarthy along with new club secretary and myself thank you all for being part of this year’s cycling journey with us. Our team have been awesome and we would welcome new blood to join are team for 2018.I would love to hear from anyone who would like to give something back to cycling in any way which is a most satisfying feeling.
We thank all of those riders and special volunteers who gave there valuable time to help out at our club events. To those sponsors who have been there to support our events throughout the year, your support has not gone unnoticed and we as a cycling community really thank and appreciate you. Members are encouraged to support you where they can.
Finally to you all, have a safe and happy Xmas Holiday season. It is a time for family and friends to relax and have a great brake and recharge for another exciting 2018 year ahead.
Merry Xmas
Ps. We are hoping you all join us on the 27th of January to join in the spirit of supporting the club at the three event “Gravel and Tar” 70k Grand Fondo or 35k River path challenge.
We welcome Bike Manawatu Memberships
Bike Manawatu welcomes all new members and value all of our current members who turn out week after week to ride a bike. Our annual memberships cost of only $45 for adults ,youths under 19 years old at $25 and family memberships with three or more at only $80 represent great value compared to most other sports.
What is important to know is that your club membership covers public liability insurance which is a valuable benefit. With over 300 Bike Manawatu organised rides per year and loads of great people and friendships you make, what could be better for bike enthusiasts than joining our club.
With your membership contribution we hope you try out as many local events as possible.
Equally we extend a request for more members to help out with our annual calendar of club events during at events from time to time.
Standing down riding an event every now to help out would help provide an even spread of helpers versus the small few who put their hand up regularly.
Contact Kerryn our club secretary on secretary@bikemanawatu.co.nz to find out how easy it is to get your membership started or renewed or to be on our list of volunteers to call on every now and then.
by Vaughan Hunt | Dec 15, 2017 | Board Chair's Blog
Bike Manawatu ‘Novice Tour of Manawatu’ is one of the best junior tours in New Zealand and last weekend brought the best riders together from all over New Zealand to compete in our tough four stage tour. Over 125 riders plus their supporters travelled from as far as Christchurch and Auckland and enjoyed a proper tour. They had to endure challenging sunny breezy conditions along with challenging courses in all age group competitions that put them to the test. And a test it was.
This iconic 44-year-old tour did not disappoint highlighting all the emotions of racing. Highly competitive race tactics and exciting finishes, pain, joy and the usual disappointment that comes with racing or mechanicals.
Bike Manawatu Race Organisers Mike and Tim Lloyd and there organising committee worked tirelessly in pre-planning the tour and on the day produced an energy sapping near seamless event for the riders and supporters they can be proud of.
To those volunteers, club members and wider community people who gave their time up to help make this tour a success, the club really thank you and appreciate your involvement. We needed your help and you stood up. Mike Craine has stated without you it would simply not be possible to run a proud event like this. To those of you who would be available to help out at our January 27th one day Gravel and Tar UCI Classic please email secretary@bikemanawatu.co.nz
Novice Tour Sponsors
To the valued sponsors of this event your support has been amazing and invaluable. On behalf of the club, all riders and supporter we thank you and we encourage all members to support these people and their businesses when possible.
The hotly contested under 19 men’s final stage road race seen here tackling the famous manawatu Valley Road Hill road climb on lap two of three. The eventual tour winner Nelson star rider Finn Fisher -Black held the yellow jersey at this point and went onto win the Tour (general classification).
Looks who’s watching, former Manawatu pro cyclist Jesse Sargent. Great to see him back at the Novice Tour.
Novice Tour race organiser Mike Craine conducting his volunteers race briefing at Tui Brewery before the first race day one. Mike along with his fellow race organiser Tim Lloyd and organising committee did an outstanding job organising and running this iconic event.
Chief Commissaire Tim Whitehouse (centre) and his team of seven commissaires Mike Simpson,Glenys Taylor,Graeme Moffat,Sue Lyttle,Graham Eaton,Robin Wood and Wayne Fenn controlled the tour brilliantly. Tim is flanked by Barry Wilson lead car for the under 19 men, and fellow Commissaire Graeme Eaton.
Busy as usual co race organiser Tim Lloyd conducting the after race roll out of the hotly contested 105km last day road race. Soon after Tim was back on the microphone conducting prize giving along with club secretary Keryn Paekau with military precision. A huge effort.
The prize giving set up was brilliant at the local Ashhurst Inn. It felt like riders, supporters, volunteers and sponsors where all together in a small European cycling village celebrating the end of a local tour. A great way to finish this year’s Novice Tour for everyone.
See you again next year….
Checkout all results on Facebook Novice tour of Manawatu.
Manawatu Festival of Cycling
When:- Saturday January 27th
Where; From the square on Palmerston North. Registration packs will be collected from Cyclista Cafe -George street.
Time; Start times from 1.15pm
Party/Prize Giving; George street.Times to be confirmed.
Registrations; http://www.gravelandtar.com and courses.
Check out all of the finer details about the three events on the above online address today and register today.
Also check our video interview with last years winner Robert Stannard, race organiser Steve Stannard and riders Carne Groube and Rosie Obrien about what the “Gravel and Tar” means to them.@teamjvlatbaylets
Gravel and Tar Events
Three “Gravel and Tar” events will be on Saturday January 27th 2018 following the New Zealand cycle Classic a week earlier.
The headline event, the “Gravel and Tar Classic” will attract professional riders and teams from all over the world who have travelled to Australia and New Zealand seeking UCI points early in the International season. The world will live streaming the beautiful Manawatu which is a coup for New Zealand and Bike Manawatu. It is expected New Zealand’s best trade teams will participate and will be hard pressed against the Australian and Asian based teams, continental and pro continental teams.
Alongside with the “Gravel and Tar”, and to support our “Manawatu Festival of Cycling Weekend” a Gran Fondo (sportive)ride will be held over 70km.This is to give riders of all ages, levels and genders the opportunity to ride as part of the course the elite men will be riding. Crossing the international finish line will be exciting.
There is also a 30km fun ride called the Riverpath Challenge for the recreational riders like Mums, Dads, Kids and Grand Parents which is flat with a few easy gravel sections.
Enter online: http://www.gravelandtar.com
1) UCI 125km Manawatu Gravel and Tar Classic-International teams. Starts 1.30pm
2) The 70km Gran Fondo- All ages and abilities $55 per person: Start 1.15pm
3) The 35 Riverpath Challenge- All ages and abilities.$35 per person: Start 1.30pm
Being awarded a UCI (1.2 level) International race is a big deal for New Zealand and the Manawatu. The “Manawatu Gravel and Tar Classic” has been running for two years and to get UCI accreditation has been described in rugby terms like holding a Super 15 Rugby final here in the Manawatu year after year. Its that big.
Bike Manawatu are hoping our members and the community will embrace and support the beginning of something special for our region.
The “Manawatu Festival of Cycling Weekend”. The stage is set for us all to build on year after year hoping to create our own “Cycling Festival” for everyone in the region and beyond to enjoy. Often cyclists have to travel away to events and pay for accommodation and entry fees upwards of $100 versus staying and supporting our local events and only pay $55.
Bike Manawatu’s concept on the “Weekend Festival of Cycling” on the 27th and 28th of January is perfect timing for families at the end of the school Holidays before returning to schools. Consider how the Lake Taupo Cycling Challenge got started all those years ago and where it is today.
Also on Sunday 28th of January our good friends the Manawatu Mountain Biking Club are supporting the weekend with the Kahuterawa Mountain Bike Challenge which will allow cyclists to ride the Gran Fondo on Saturday the 27th and then ride the Mountain Bike event on Sunday 28th.How good would that be? Check out the MountainBike website for more details.
Trust House North Island Trust Series
We want to congratulate the many club members who challenged themselves as part of various teams to race the tough Trust House North Island team series that recently concluded in the Wairarapa. The results of our local teams and riders were outstanding.
Check the results out on cyclingseriesnz.co.nz
We welcome Bike Manawatu Memberships
Bike Manawatu welcomes all new members and value all of our current members who turn out week after week to ride a bike. Our annual memberships cost of only $45 for adults ,youths under 19 years old at $25 and family memberships with three or more at only $80 represent great value compared to most other sports.
What is important to know is that your club membership covers public liability insurance which is a valuable benefit. With over 300 Bike Manawatu organised rides per year and loads of great people and friendships you make, what could be better for bike enthusiasts than joining our club.
With your membership contribution we hope you try out as many local events as possible.
Equally we extend a request for more members to help out with our annual calendar of club events during at events from time to time.
Standing down riding an event every now to help out would help provide an even spread of helpers versus the small few who put there hand up regularly.
Contact Keryn our club secretary on secretary@bikemanawatu.co.nz to find out how easy it is to get your membership started or renewed or to be on our list of volunteers to call on every now and then.
by Vaughan Hunt | Dec 8, 2017 | Board Chair's Blog
When : 9th and 10th of December
Be sure to come and watch this weekend’s historic annual two-day, four stages Manawatu Novice Tour.
44 years of history bringing most of the best young riders in New Zealand to the Manawatu to compete in this iconic tour that showcases our region. Some of New Zealand’s former and current stars have ridden this tour and speak highly of how important the Manawatu Novice Tour was in their development. Check out race locations and courses Facebook Bikemanawatu
1)Mangatainoka Road Races: Saturday 9am :
2) Mangatainoka ITT; Saturday midday 12noon
3) Manfeild Criterium; Saturday 5pm
4) Ashhurst Road Race; Sunday 10am.
Prize giving : Ashhurst Inn garden bar 2pm
Check out Bikemanawatu website or contact secretary@bikemanawatu.co.nz
Manawatu Festival of Cycling
When:-January 27th and 28
Where; Cyclista on George street for registration packs and riders start from the Square
Time; 1pm start
Party/Prize Giving; George street.Times to be confirmed.
Registrations www.gravelandtar.com and courses.
Check out race organiser and rider interviews on www.facebook.com/teamjvlatbayleys
1) UCI 125km Manawatu Gravel and Tar Classic-International teams.
2) The 70km Gran Fondo- All ages and abilities $55
3) The 35 Riverpath Challenge- All ages and abilities.$35
Being awarded a UCI (1.2 level) International race is a big deal for New Zealand and the Manawatu. The “Manawatu Gravel and Tar Classic” has been running for two years and to get UCI accreditation has been described in rugby terms like holding a Super 15 Rugby final here in the Manawatu year after year. Its that big.
Bike Manawatu are hoping our members and the community will embrace and support the beginning of something special for our region which involves an even bigger focus of people entering the Gravel and Tar 70k Gran Fondo and 35k Riverpath Challenge ( no gravel) for all ages and abilities. Without your support the event will not be the same.
The “Manawatu Weekend Festival of Cycling” is an event for everyone from the buzz of the 125k UCI International race to the two recreational rides for everyone to be involved in. This will set the stage for us to build on year after year hoping to create our own “Cycling Festival” for everyone in the region and beyond. Local riders always have to travel away to events and pay for accommodation and entry fees upwards of $100 versus staying and supporting our local events and only pay $55.
Bike Manawatu’s concept on the “Weekend Festival of Cycling” on the 27th and 28th of January is perfect timing for families at the end of the school Holidays before returning to schools. Consider how the Lake Taupo Cycling Challenge got started all those years ago and where it is today.
Also on Sunday 28th of January our good friends the Manawatu Mountain Biking Club are supporting the weekend with the Kahuterawa Mountain Bike Challenge which will allow cyclists to ride the Gran Fondo on Saturday the 27th and then ride the Mountain Bike event on Sunday 28th. How good would that be.
Cycling fans in mid-winter over in Europe will be glued to their computers and TV to see who is going to win our tough Manawatu Gravel and Tar 125k Classic and get UCI points. Showcasing our region is a responsibility and the more people that engage in the “Manawatu Weekend Festival of Cycling” the better it will be for promoting Manawatu.
Neutralised starts from the square at a respectable 1pm start time we hope will capture a crowd atmosphere to give the event a Kiwi/European Vibe.
The international finish line will be at Memorial Park with the usual UCI finish line structures and hoardings we see on TV at International races across the world. A nice way for all of the Gran Fondo 70k and 35k Riverpath Challenge riders to finish.
Campbell Stewart and Michaela Drummond World Cup
Campbell Stewart and Michaela Drummond complete an amazing and busy UCI Track Cycling World Cup in Canada. Campbell was part of the New Zealand Men’s 4000m cycling pursuit team with an average age of only 20 that won gold over the Canadians. He was also 4th in the Omnium. Michaela claimed a silver medal in the Women’s 4000m team pursuit and bronze in the Women’s madison.
Outstanding results for our local stars on the world stage. Congratulations to you both.
Club Kairanga Time Trail 8 Race Series
When: Wednesday’s
Where; At Horizons yard on Kairanga-Bunnythorpe road.
Registrations from ;5.45pm and will close of at 6.15pm.
Start Times from : 6.30pm:
On Wednesdays the Club Kairanga Time Trail 8 week series continues to attract good numbers to ride the flat 12Km country time trail course to record points for the series or just have a good hit out for fitness and training for other events.
Trying to better your time and improve your fitness, strength, speed and bike handling skills gives our riders massive reward which most come to try and achieve. Stepping outside of your comfort zone is proving rewarding for those who are trying these new events.
We welcome Bike Manawatu Memberships
Bike Manawatu welcomes all new members and value all of our current members who turn out week after week to ride a bike.Our annual memberships cost of only $45 for adults ,youths under 19 years old at $25 and family memberships with three or more at only $80 represent great value compared to most other sports.
What is important to know is that your club membership covers public liability insurance which is a valuable benefit. With over 300 Bike Manawatu organised rides per year and loads of great people and friendships you make, what could be better for bike enthusiasts than joining our club.
With your membership contribution we hope you try out as many local events as possible.
Equally we extend a request for more members to help out with our annual calendar of club events during at events from time to time.
Standing down riding an event every now to help out would help provide an even spread of helpers versus the small few who put there hand up regularly.
Contact Keryn our club secretary on secretary@bikemanawatu.co.nz to find out how easy it is to get your membership started or renewed or to be on our list of volunteers to call on every now and then.
