Linda Hall: Wheels in motion for great carnival

Hawke's Bay Summer Cycling Carnival begins today.

Today is the first day of Hawke's Bay Summer Cycling Carnival. Our wonderful region is in for 10 days of serious fun and 10 days of serious competitive racing.

It's exciting.

The Bay has been fair pumping since before Christmas. I don't remember ever seeing so many tourists out and about.

This carnival will ensure that the "buzz" hangs around for at least 10 more days.

We have more than 200km of cycle paths, more than any other region in New Zealand. There are thousands of people who use these cycleways and then there are a whole lot more who ride our roads, training for events or simply to keep fit.

Cycling seems to be a growing sport and I'm sure there will be loads of interest in watching the elite riders or joining in on the fun rides.

Of course there are going to be road closures, so make sure you know when and where to avoid either being stuck at home or not being able to get home.

To drivers, please be patient if you come across anyone on a bike, whether they are racing or just out enjoying our beautiful scenery.

While on my bike I've come across some drivers who seem to take great delight in driving so close to me that I could pat the passenger on the head.

Then there are others who come to a complete stop and wave me on, or just go slowly behind me until I have rounded a roundabout. They don't toot or gesture wildly at me.

I'm pretty sure they ride bikes themselves.

Let's share the road, be safe and enjoy this carnival.