BCU bike ride a challenge

PEDAL POWER: Tourism Association chairman George Cecato at Thursday’s Jetty launch of the BCU Coffs Coast Cycle Challenge.

Trevor Veale

IT’S shaping up as one of the signature events on the Coffs Coast.

The inaugural BCU Coffs Coast Cycle Challenge hits the pavement on September 19 and cyclists from across our region are already priming their pedals.

The 75km ride – proudly sponsored by the Advocate – is the brainchild of the Coffs City Rotary Club and coincides with NSW Bike Week.

“It will be held entirely on bitumen roads, starting and finishing at the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores,” said event director Peter Wardman.

“Riders will take in the sights through Sawtell to Pine Creek Forest, along the banks of the beautiful Bellinger River, around the Yellow Rock loop, along the Kalang River and back to Coffs Harbour.

“There is a category for every level of rider including individuals, relay teams of three, and an option of a 50km ride for new or less experienced participants or tandem riders.”

Mr Wardman said while most of the money raised would go to local charities, some funds would be directed to Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children (ROMAC).

This organisation provides life saving and dignity-restoring medical treatment for children from developing countries.

“We are expecting at least 400 riders in this year’s event and are confident that over the next few years, participation will grow,” Mr Wardman said.

BCU chief executive, Lyndon Kingston, said the community credit union was delighted to partner Rotary in this event.

“The predominant focus of both BCU and Rotary is on service to our region, so we are happy to support the challenge,” Mr Kingston said.

The cycle challenge is also supported by Coffs Harbour City Council, the C.ex Group, Lindsay Australia Transport, Willaid, Go Safety, Mike Blewitt Ford, Coffs Coast Travel and Axis Printing Solutions.