Riders to take on gruelling climb

Cuddon Cycling Marlborough's riders will compete in the testing Whatamango three-stage tour tomorrow afternoon.

The open-grade 64km event starts with a 27km massed start stage from Blenheim to Picton, with the top riders trying to get some time advantage over the elevation climb into Picton.

Stage two is a 10km individual time trial from Waikawa to the top of the Whatamango Hill.

The final stage returns from Picton to Blenheim, with three chances of bonus sprint seconds, which come into play if there is a close classification after stage two. The favoured riders for fastest time will be Gerard van Antwerpen, Brent Ackroyd and Antony Clark.

Each stage also carries sealed handicap points towards the handicap trophy.

The junior under-17 grade will compete in a two-stage event for the Redwood Fisheries Cup over stage one and three courses of the open event.

Callum Saunders will have good competition from Will Hart, Nick Blakiston and Quinn Karwowski.

All riders are to assemble at the Research Centre at 12.30pm for a 1pm start.

- The Marlborough Express