The race is on again for the coveted title of New Zealand’s Most Cycle Mad District. Cyclists of all ages are being urged to hop onto the saddle for the family event of the year, and to help Franklin pedal to victory.

 

The Bike Wise Mayoral Challenge is a national community event where Mayors from around New Zealand are challenged to see who can get the most people cycling with them.

 

Franklin District Mayor Mark Ball will lead the Challenge at iconic Pukekohe Park Raceway on Tuesday 23 February, 6.00-8.00pm.  Registration begins from 5.30pm.

 

Mark says the Challenge is a great opportunity to have some family fun and be active.

 

“Cycling is a great way to get fit and do something that’s enjoyable. The Mayoral Challenge helps to promote this, and gives people the chance to cycle around our iconic track – something most people don’t get a chance to see up close.”

 

 “It was a great family night out last year – with more than 700 participants enjoying the cycling and the festival atmosphere. This year’s event promises to be even better. Let’s try for 800 participants this time around – and show your support for Franklin.”

 

Cyclists are encouraged to just ride the track at their own pace, or the more serious contenders can step it up after the Mayoral lap.

 

The Bike Wise Mayoral Challenge promises to be a great night of family fun. There will be the cycling challenge around the track, entertainment, a sausage sizzle, free healthy snacks, spot prizes and much more. All registered cyclists will be in the draw to win an Avanti bike at the end of the night. Children under seven will also have the opportunity to win a Raleigh bike kindly donated by Counties Cycles.

 

The community is encouraged to bring their bikes, trikes and helmets along for a fantastic night of cycling and entertainment.

 

The Mayoral Challenge is a highlight event of Bike Wise Month. During February cities, towns and districts from all over New Zealand compete to get the most people riding along with their Mayor.

 

This will be the sixth Mayoral Challenge and the competition gets bigger every year. Last year almost 14,060 cyclists from 48 centres took part.