Epic bike ride a huge success

It was a long journey – three days – but for the more than 173 cyclists who participated, it was wholly worthwhile, with a swag of charities the beneficiaries.

While the final tally has yet to be confirmed, it appears this year's Central South Island Charity Bike Ride has raised more than $127,000.

The expedition finished on Saturday and took the cyclists from Timaru to Kurow, through to Lake Tekapo then back to Timaru – over 369 kilometres of countryside.

The event is in its sixth year and is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. During that time, more than $550,000 has been raised for central South Island charities.

This year the recipients are: Hospice South Canterbury, Arthritis New Zealand South Canterbury, Asthma South Canterbury, Timaru Senior Citizens' Association, Cystic Fibrosis Association of New Zealand, Speld South Canterbury, Upper Waitaki Returned and Services Association, and South Canterbury Ostomy Society.

Last year, and in spite of the recession, 165 riders and 30 support people raised $120,000.

jeff.tollan@timaruherald.co.nz

- © Fairfax NZ News