The Three Day Big Easy

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.

Under the leadership of Garry Buys and his trusted lieutenants, 38 cyclists of varying ages and experience set off into the unknown on a three day 500km ride to the Hawkes Bay in three suitable groups last Saturday.

BigEasy

Tackling very strong winds on the first day was a big challenge while traveling the picturesque back blocks to complete the 180km to Hastings. Some riders doing 200k just to say they could. A well deserved group dinner and some refreshments set everyone up for the second days ride with many finishing off the day with a steep climb to the top of Tamata Peak.Ara accomplishment.

The traditional final nights group dinner was a memorable evening with lots of great stories on one another’s cycling efforts and antics.Enough said. The next morning with tired legs ahead of the 174k ride home was the hot topic of conversation. Suprisingly the sun came out and after some spirited riding home everyone reached Palmerston North safely to celebrated their achievements at Hotel Coachman in true kiwi style.

Well done to all involved especially to Garry Buys and his support team for a memorable Three Day Big Easy.