Strong fields spice up event

CAPABLE: Ben Johnston will battle favourite Gordon McCauley.PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Northlanders will be in for a tough race tomorrow in the Fred Ogle Memorial Ride with former Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Gordon McCauley touted as a favorite to take out the men's 110km ride.

However, it's not just the former professional rider and Tour of Southland winner McCauley who Northlanders will be keeping an eye out for.

Race organiser Stu Bell said while McCauley was a rider of note, there were plenty of Northland riders who would be chomping at his heels.

In particular Bell felt former Whangarei rider Ben Johnston - who is now based in Christchurch - would be right there, along with youngsters Richard Young, Liam Seeley and Matthew Markby.

Meanwhile in the women's race, who are racing for the Lynley MacDonald Memorial Trophy, the favourite is likely to be 2012 winner Ruby Livingston who will put to the test by one of New Zealand's top up-and-coming riders Devon Hiley - who is travelling to the region with McCauley.

Bell said in both the men's and women's 110km races it could be decided by a puncture or if a favourite had a bad day at the office.

"There are a lot of good riders in Northland and anything can happen on the day," Bell told the Advocate.

"There are a couple of younger guys from the Marsden Wheelers [who could win] so if any of these top guys drop out then they'll be in there."

One rider who was sure to inspire those around him is 72-year-old Len Pakenham who is a regular in the Fred Ogle Memorial, returning again this year for another round.

Sunday's Memorial Ride will include a 12.5km family fun ride, named after Whangarei businessman and keen cyclist Michael Springford.

Springford passed away in February 2013 while competing in the Wellington to Auckland cycle challenge. The Whangarei LJ Hooker owner was a keen cyclist and supporter of local community events, including the Fred Ogle Memorial Ride, which honours cyclist and safety campaigner Fred Ogle, killed in a cycling accident in 2008.

The 2014 Fred Ogle Memorial Ride also includes 25km, 50km and 110km events. All rides start from the Mangakahia Sports Complex. Late entries will be accepted until 2.30pm today at Avanti Plus Whangarei. For more information including course maps, go to www.bikenorthland.co.nz