Andertons up for the challenge
Richie and Marina Anderton won’t be getting on a bike for some time after December 13.
The brother and sister, who teach at Aotea College, are taking part in a charity ride from Levin to Cape Reinga early next month. The seven-day journey will cover 1200km, with 40 people taking part.
The charity, Eagles Wings, is Australian-based and focuses on a village in Zambia, helping street children out of poverty and building a school.
Since being established in 2008, the charity has raised more than $600,000 through events like bike rides, which have taken place in nine countries.
The Andertons have a family connection with Eagles Wings, with cousin Reid being involved in Australia.
The duo – who say they are not serious cyclists – completed the inaugural Eagles Wings ride in New Zealand last year, cycling more than 1050km from Christchurch to Milford Sound.
‘‘The idea is that it’s a challenge. It’s meant to be tough,’’ Marina said.
‘‘Last year was brutal – there is footage of me being pushed up a hill. It didn’t help that we had to cycle over Arthur’s Pass on the first day.’’
Marina said the key was not to go too hard too early.
Richie, riding a borrowed bike, will be in the fast team during the challenge.
The longest day will be day 5, from Thames to Dargaville – 194km.
Richie said he had been training solidly since October 1.
‘‘Last year we didn’t know what we were getting into, so at least we know what we’re in for this time around.
‘‘ I’m dreading
it a bit, but there’s always painkillers.’’
Marina spent a month in Zambia in 2008 and said she was affected by her time there.
The extreme poverty was eye- opening and she said Eagles Wings was doing great things to improve lives.