Rain? It could be a vicious cycle
Rainy weather could put a spoke in the wheels of Saturday's 18th NZ Heritage Bicycle Champs.
Organisers reckon there could be the odd crash and a bit of blood - but that's all part of the fun they say.
Held in conjunction with Oamaru Ordinary Cycle Club, the event involves three races around the Criterion Block - including the fiercely competitive Oamaru Shingle Supplies Mens Raleigh & Healing 20 and the Vertical Ventures Ladies Raleigh & Healing 20.
Co-organiser Chester Tiddys said: "It's two laps of the Criterion Block, with prizes for first, second and third. We've got $2000 prize money up for grabs."
For Mr Tiddys, the racing was all about meeting people, especially those from out of town, and making friends.
He has about 40 vintage bikes in his collection and has come third in the men's race for the past two years.
"It's something that challenges people and encourages them to improve their fitness, which is what it's all about," he said.
He said entrants were encouraged to dress up in the era.
"Not everyone's going to win it, and they know that, so dressing up is all part of the fun," he said.
"There are some serious bikers though. The guy that won it last year is a serious rider, he was over from America at the time and the guy that got second was a New Zealand in-line skating champ. There are some pretty fit guys."
Teams are coming from Wanaka, Timaru, a big contingent from Christchurch (The Christchurch Tweed Riders) and Auckland especially for the race.
Co-organiser Mick Shufla said the race was getting bigger and better and putting Oamaru on the map.
Organisers are encouraging more women to sign up for the ladies' race, which usually only gets about half as many entries as the men's.
Registrations can be made at Retro Funk, until 12pm on race day. Races will start at about 12.30pm.
The racing events will be followed by a prizegiving at the Birdlands Wine Bar at 7pm.
