Relaxing rides for the casual cyclist

Bikesoutsidecafe RELAXING: Cyclists can enjoy a coffee at the end. PICTURE / SPORT WHANGANUI

Providing a platform for people who enjoy riding in a non-competitive environment and meeting others with a shared interest are key reasons behind keen local cyclist Cherie Prince leading the launch of some popular local Sunday group bike sessions.
The sessions started in October, not long after Cherie - mum-of-four, former competitive cyclist and member of Wanganui Cycling Club - took up the cycling regional development officer role at Sport Whanganui.
Cherie's goal is to grow the region's cycling profile, and something she considers an important focus is getting as many people as she can out and about on bikes. Co-ordinating the set-up and running of the Sunday group sessions seemed a no-brainer.
"We felt there was an opportunity here to cater for people in our community who, for whatever reason, aren't attached to a club and prefer riding in a relaxed, non-competitive setting with the added opportunity to meet people and socialise over a coffee afterwards," Cherie says.
The sessions have proved popular, with the groups meeting at around 10am each Sunday morning at the Sport Whanganui office ready to do an approximate 12-14km loop and finish up at local café. Participants also benefit from the guidance of experienced riders, such as Cherie and fellow keen cyclist Stacey Hildreth, who are on-hand to offer tips, tricks, support and general encouragement.
"The sessions have so far appealed to a really diverse set of riders," Cherie says.
"People have come along on tourers, road bikes and mountain bikes, and with different aims in mind. Some have used the sessions to help them achieve a specific goal, such as preparing to take part in an upcoming event, while others are just happy to take up the opportunity of getting out and active in the friendly company of others.
"One lady had recently moved here from Rotorua and viewed the sessions as the ideal way to meet locals and check out the different rides available in the area.
"Another hadn't ridden for a while and was delighted at the opportunity to be able to ride with people who were at a similar level and happy to go at a more relaxed pace."
While the official guided group has just tied up for the holiday period, People can continue meeting, riding and socialising on their own.
More of the official guided sessions are definitely on the agenda for next year and Cherie welcomes questions or suggestions regarding these and/or any other potential cycling opportunity.
¦ Cherie can be contacted at Sport Whanganui on (06) 349 2882 or via email: cherie@sportwhanganui.co.nz