Despite the current ‘cost of living challenges’ facing all community events, Bike Manawatu is 100% committed to ensuring the 51st year of the Novice Tour – once again provides a safe, fun, competitive cycle racing event.
We will adopt a high-quality assured approach in implementing the Local Roading Authority’s/Cycling New Zealand’s ‘Safe Traffic Management System’ (STMS) standards which ensure best practices and rider and spectator safety.
If the level of community funding secured is not sufficient to contract in external road management service providers with the ability to stop/go traffic, the Novice Tour will proceed on a ‘local club racing’ model, whereby our team of trained/experienced road marshals will, where necessary, pause racing in order to give way to traffic and ensure rider safety.
Although funding external road management services with the ability to stop/go traffic is ideal, if this is not feasible – we are confident that the event’s ‘Safe Traffic Management System’ (STMS) will provide a competitive, fair, enjoyable and importantly safe racing environment.
Irrespective of which model of traffic management/racing is finalised, as with all CNZ/Bike Manawatu events, normal road rules will apply and a full rider briefing confirming the event rules will be provided to all riders prior to the start of each race.
This years La Femme fun ride offered ladies 60, 44 and 20 k, as well as a 20 k specifically for families, and a 60 k 3 person Accumulator event, designed to give any age and ability a challenge with no pressure on beginners.
All events went very well, with some of last years participants turning up for this years event.
We had very positive feedback from various participants who praised some of our local ladies for helping them to complete the ride. Riders from Hawkes Bay, Whanganui, and Otaki took part this year also.
We enjoyed a picnic atmosphere after the ride with a light lunch supplied by Sport Manawatu , a sausage sizzle and lollies for the kids.
Churchyard Physiotherapy was our major sponsor again this year giving a Voucher to the value of $350 which was won by Vicki Carne.
The major prizes this year included Yellow Jerseys for the winners, free Bike Manawatu Memberships, Pedal Pushers Vouchers, Speedway Tickets, Café Cuba Vouchers, along with a lot of lovely spot prizes which every rider received.
Our aim is to encourage ladies to give it a go, and we’re happy to see new faces in ‘La Femme’ 2015. Thanks to everyone for participating and making the day a success!
Christine Christie
