Amateurs miss out on pro ride

Amateur cyclists will have to put their professional dreams on hold after organisers announced they would be postponing the Gran Fondo.

The challenge, which would have seen community cyclists riding on the same international circuit as the professionals, was to be held tomorrow ahead of stage four of the New Zealand Cycle Classic in Manawatu.

Race director Jorge Sandoval said concern over the cyclists' safety was the reason for the delay.

"The spectator numbers for the classic around the course have been higher than we expected, which is great to see. We expect that over the weekend we will see even greater numbers of spectators.

"I have to take into account the advice of my team and officials and safety of all the cyclists needs to be put as first priority."

Mr Sandoval said the cycling challenge would instead be held on February 25, in conjunction with the Women's Tour of New Zealand.

It was disappointing having to postpone the race, but no alternative courses were available.

Mr Sandoval said pre-registered riders would be refunded their money.

He said he hoped they would all take up the chance to ride the same track through Ashhurst ahead of the women's tour.

"They will still get a taste of riding the same track as elite riders."

The Gran Fondo was one of 35 activities organised by Bike Manawatu as part of the 33 Days of Cycling, which is playing out over the course of the New Zealand Cycle Classic and the Women's Tour.

All other activities on the cycling calendar were running on schedule, organisers said.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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