15 February 2005

Greens take up cycling challenge with Mallard, Maharey

Green MPs Rod Donald and Mike Ward will highlight all the benefits of cycling by joining Ministers Steve Maharey and Trevor Mallard in a cycling challenge from Wainuiomata to Wellington tomorrow.

The challenge coincides with Bike To Work Day, starting from Mr Mallard's home in Wainuiomata and ending at a Bike To Work Day reception in Wellington's Civic Square.

Messrs Donald and Ward are experienced cyclists, both veterans of consecutive Round Lake Taupo cycle challenges.

Mr Ward, Green Sport, Fitness, and Leisure Spokesperson, fresh from completing the Coast-to-Coast earlier this month, said the two Green MPs were looking forward to tomorrow's challenge.

"We're confident of doing well, enjoying ourselves, and looking good. We're going to be highlighting all the benefits of cycling."

Mr Donald said the aim of the challenge and Bike To Work Day generally was to raise New Zealanders' use of bikes.

"I may be the youngest of the four MPs taking part, but I'm certainly not the fittest. This challenge is about participation, about showing that cycling can be fun."

Mr Donald added that, for him, cycling was a luxurious activity.

"Cycling can be both luxurious and comfortable. I have brought my luxury possum fur seat cover with me from Christchurch especially for this challenge."

ENDS

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