Coastal route to have trio primed for carnival

THREE international riders are gearing up for the 36th annual Bikes & Spikes carnival at New Town Oval on Sunday with an unusual preparation — by riding from Launceston to Hobart via Tasmania’s East Coast.

Austrian Stephan Matzner, American Zachary Kovalcik and German Hans Pirius hit the road yesterday on their 280km adventure on the state’s most popular tourist trail ahead of a dash for cash in the $2200 Hobart Wheel. All three have raced in six-day events in Europe.

“They are guys who can go long and hard, and we’ve got an unusual track here — it’s outdoors with a slight uphill — which makes it a bit harder for a pure trackie,” cycling race director David Dennis said. “These guys will light it up.” Pirius is the leader of the pack and the one expected to excel.

“They will have the local guys trying to make sure they don’t get the money, but the internationals may team up to make sure they do get some cash,” Dennis said. Then there is Kiwi Thomas Garbett. “He’s a middle marker who is superfast and in good form,” Dennis said.

A field of more than 30 senior riders will contest the six events, including the Wheel, 1000m handicap, 2000m Missing Out race and A-Grade scratch.

The field for the women’s cycling is smaller, with five races featuring the Wheel, as well as 1000m and 2000m events.

A quality field of athletes will also gather for the running events.

The event starts at 11am.