The toughest 200kms in NZ

The toughest 200kms in NZ

Over 1200 elite and recreational cyclists will brave the gruelling hills of the Coromandel Peninsula on Saturday for the infamous K2 cycle event.

This annual 200km ride, which is often referred to as the toughest recreational ride in New Zealand, has a unique point of difference which makes it a strong bucket list candidate for any keen cyclist.

“K2 is unique because for one, it’s 200km of very tough and hilly terrain, but the really interesting thing about this event is that it starts in a different town every year and rotates around the region, so it’s always a different course which is nice,” said event director Andy Reid.

“I think it is the only event like it in the country whereby each year is a completely different race.”

In 2012, the event starts and finishes in Tairua after completing a north-bound loop through Whitianga, Coromandel and Thames. Varying distances of 150km, 100km and a much shorter Challenge course are also available to cater for a wider scope of fitness capabilities.

While walk up entries are accepted on the day, Reid said most participants in the 200km ride will be well-prepared and ready by the time the starter’s horn sounds.

“For some it’s a race, for others it’s a ride. The majority of people just want to get around the course without feeling too trashed at the end of it because it’s quite a punishing ride,” he said.

“For this event, you’d probably have to train throughout the winter in order to avoid too much discomfort.”

The K2 event also acts as round two of the 2012/13 BikeNZ Summer Series, which hosts 11 of New Zealand’s most iconic cycle events.

“The Summer Series is a great concept for New Zealand cycling. Anything that motivates people to get out there and ride in more events can only be a good thing really,” said Reid.

Entries are still open so for more information, visit http://www.arcevents.co.nz/k2cycle.
-ends-

© Scoop Media