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On Saturday 10th March, the Colville Connection will celebrate its 11th anniversary. Over the years the Colville Connection has seen some of the country's best mountain bikers, cyclists and triathletes duke it out around Port Jackson at the Northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula.
Along with the elite riders the event has become famous amongst mountain bikers off all levels with the 3 different distance options of 72km, 42km and 21km. The distances provide a great variety of courses with the 21km event ideal for those more recent to the sport, some participants enjoying a stop for a swim at Waikawau Bay. The 42km event is a genuine trail ride with plenty of climbing and technical descents while the 72km event quite simply boasts some of the best views the country has on offer with Pohutukawa lined trails and a superb single track section to keep the blood pumping.
In 2011 Event Management Company - total sport, took over the reigns of the event and are ecstatic to carry on the traditions laid down the over last 10 years while also adding some exciting new initiatives for those who prefer to have their adventures on foot. The Auckland based company who specializes in trail running and mountain bike events have introduced four trail running events with 5km, 10km, 21km and 42.2km options.
“We are so pleased to be able to open up this amazing piece of land to running and walking enthusiasts as well. It is a special part of the world that we know everyone will really enjoy.” explained Event Manager Cam Carter.
There is a bit of a cult like following around the Colville Connection with close to 25 individuals who have taken part in all 10 years, most have already signed up for the 2012 event as well. This year has a mass of different event categories from tandems, retro class, clydesdale (for the big fellas), bare-foot, style king/queen, corporate, family and open team options to maintain the fun and lively atmosphere for which the Colville Connection has become famous.
The event has been set up as a major fund raiser for the local school with all profits from food and beverage going back into the community. Participants will enjoy the local cuisine of mussel fritters - famous amongst regular competitors. The local kids also provide a post event bike wash for a gold coin donation. Huge support is provided from the locals who assist with marshaling and open up their land for everything from the courses to the parking, as well as putting out their home grown fruit at the aid stations.
There'll be a range of local products and crafts on display at the event showcasing the area's arts as for decades the Coromandel's inspiring vistas and alternative lifestyle has created a strong artistic community.
To enter or find more information visit www.colvilleconnection.co.nz
Or contact Cam Carter on camc@totalsport.co.nz