Bikers to go chainless for Vertigo event

Monday 14 January 2008

Bikers to go chainless for Vertigo event at Coronet Peak

Coronet Peak plays host this weekend to the inaugural Vertigo Chainless race, starting at 11:30am on Saturday (19 January) on the Bike Park’s exhilarating downhill track.

Riders race in the event without bike chains, which are removed by the experts in advance. Growing in popularity at mountain bike resorts around the world, high levels of fitness are not needed for freewheeling races like this, opening them to a broad range of competitors.

“This is going to be a really fun day. Chainless mountain bike events are a great equaliser, suitable for first time racers right through to hardened riders,” said Jeff Hodge, Mountain Biking Operations Manager at Coronet Peak.

“The emphasis is on getting up here and taking part; it’s not going to be too serious. Spectators will have a great time too, with plenty of on-track antics to watch.”

Race classes feature Junior, Women and Senior Men categories and fancy dress is strongly encouraged.

Participants can pre-register at Vertigo Bikes on Queenstown’s Brecon Street, at www.nzski.com under Coronet Peak / events or on the day between 8:15am - 9:15am at the Coronet Peak Bike Park. Registration costs $35, including the day lift pass to Coronet Peak or $20 for season pass holders.

The track will be open for practice runs between 9:15am and 11:00am and race runs will be self-seeded. A range of spot prizes will be up for grabs and a special award for best fancy dress.

The downhill course re-opens to the public from 2pm. The cross country track will be open to the public throughout the day.

Continuing an eventful summer season, the Bike Park is setting up for the Nzone Brake Burner endurance race on 2nd February.

The Coronet Peak Bike Park operates 7 days a week from 10:30am to 7:30pm, weather permitting, until the season closes on 3 February. Day and multi-day tickets can be purchased on the mountain from the ticketing window at the Greengates Carpark. A range of adult bike rentals will be available at the base area operated in conjunction with Outside Sports.
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Further information visit www.nzski.com or contact:

ENDS

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