Cycling: Ulmer heads field in Lake Taupo Race

Olympic champion Sarah Ulmer and recent Tour of Southland winner Gordon McCauley head a 120-strong field for Saturday's Avanti Classic Race around Lake Taupo.

The race is the competitive arm of the annual Wattyl Lake Taupo Challenge which has attracted more than 11,500 cyclists chasing $600,000 at stake for individuals and relay riders.

The first male and female riders home pocket $2000.

Minister for Sport and Recreation Trevor Mallard is joining the huge field.