Let's hope that counting sheep won't distract Taiharuru's Ros Cole-Baker too much as she cycles around Lake Taupo tomorrow.
Cole-Baker is one of the hundreds of Northland cyclists who will compete in the 160km Lake Taupo Challenge. But she has a greater goal in mind than just completing the race.
The Taiharuru
bed-and-breakfast owner will be raising money for the Tear Fund, a charity agency that supports poor communities around the globe.
"I would love for my ride to count for a far greater cause and I am aiming to raise enough to buy an entire flock of sheep for poor families in Niger.
"I have a big goal, 160 sheep, that's one sheep for every gruelling kilometre I have to ride," she said.
Cole-Baker has competed in the challenge before and although her aim is to break seven hours, it will depend a lot on the wind. Her best time was 6.42 in 2001 but, as she says, that was a long time ago.
"This year it may be more a matter of survival than anything," she said.
Cole-Baker has long been involved in fund-raising for Tear Fund through the family's bed-and-breakfast, Tidesong.
Her husband Hugh and son Jeremy will be acting as support crew for the rider. To sponsor Cole-Baker call Tear Fund on 0800 800 77.
