International NZCT women’s tour ventures in to the Manawatu
1 December 2009
Jorge Sandoval’s NZCT Women’s Cycling Tour of New Zealand will break new ground in February 2010 when it expands in to the Manawatu region.
Previously the only international women’s tour in Oceania was confined to Wellington, Hutt Valley and the Wairarapa but Sandoval has gained the necessary traffic consents for the riders to go further afield over the five days. On the second day the riders will cycle 114 km from Masterton to Palmerston North via the Pahiatua Track, and complete two stages in the Palmerston North area the following day, the first over 125 km from Palmerston and return, and the other a 35 km criterium in the city square. The field then returns to Masterton the day after, again using the Pahiatua Track.
While the Pahiatua Track has figured in numerous Manawatu men’s races over the years, including the Auckland to Wellington tour in 1987, this will be virgin territory for an international women’s race. The track has a fearsome reputation. Strong winds can batter the riders, and there is a 12km climb they will have to negotiate twice.
“The 540 km tour route is one of the hardest in the six-year history of the event,” Sandoval said. “It will reward the strong climbers. In addition to the Pahiatua track there are also the Admiral and Te Wharau hills in a total of 12 climbs. The many climbs will be ideal places for the spectators to take in the race at close quarters.”
“Next year’s is the 7th version of the tour and we are looking forward to a great celebration. The tour is now recognised overseas as the best women’s cycle race in this country and I expect a big number of national and international riders in this the only women’s international cycling event in Oceania” Sandoval said.
The event will bring all the vibrant colour, drama and excitement of world class cycling to Wellington on the final day, February 28, when the closing stage will be a criterium over 35 km, starting and finishing on Lambton Quay.
With the event part of the International Cycling Union’s international circuit Sandoval is assured of high quality opposition to test the New Zealand riders, who will be using the event to enhance their claims for inclusion in the team for the Commonwealth Games in India later in the year.