This year had a record number of riders with 11 hardy cyclists at the start line to tackle this difficult challenge.

The previous record was 2:35:47 and president of Cook Islands Triathlon Association Inc Roland Neururer gave the team a challenge, go at least 2.45:00.

After a long afternoon in the saddle Roland, Jason, Andrew M, Olivia, the only women and David, crossed the 100K mark in 2.44.10. Setting an average speed on 36.9km/h over the 100K.

The “B team” with five riders clocked the time of 3:25.10, and Fibi doing a 75k, in a time of 3:34:30.

The course ran from Tikioki Tri Site to Harley Street and back completed 3 times. Then a final third leg included to the roundabout in Avarua to complete the 100km. The start was hard and fast, with the “A team” setting a quick speed of around 39km/h into the tail wind.

Cycling as a group, each of the riders took turns at the front of the pack before dropping behind their teammates for a period of recovery before hitting the front and taking the pace again. The headwind was average at times, and the riders worked hard to maintain a consistent and high speed, trying hard to not let their pace drop.

This year there was an “A team” and a “B team” The “A team”, target was to stay in 2.45 hour time with 5 riders in that pack, the “B team”, consisted of 5 riders with one rider doing 75k by herself. 
The course was designed to make the most of the smooth tar seal, which was excellent, the downside was that the riders had to change direction and turn a total of 7 times which added precious seconds to their ticking time. Ever conscious of the goal, which Neururer had set, the cyclists had to be careful and keep their eye on the pace and if they slowed, a faster rider was instructed to take the lead. 

Congratulations to all the cyclists who took part and to BSP for the sponsorship.

CITAI