National Criterium hits streets
TA Sports Cycling Club always well represented
New Zealand’s best cyclists will again race around the streets of downtown Takapuna which hosts the Vantage Criterium National Championships on November 11.
Stars like current Tour de France riders Patrick Bevin (Te Awamutu Sports Cycling Club) and Tom Scully, double world mountain bike champion Sam Gaze and Olympic medallist Rushlee Buchanan (Te Awamutu Sports CC) have been among the top-line professional riders to compete in the exciting criterium championships, which have been based in Takapuna since 2003.
Cycling New Zealand event director Janette Douglas said the unique nature of the course and the venue has seen the event continue to thrive on the significant momentum and community engagement.
“It is fantastic having this event in central Takapuna. The crowds and atmosphere are electric and the closeness of the racing is exactly what criterium racing should be,” Douglas said.
“We are delighted with the continued support from the local businesses and residents of Takapuna which gives the public the chance to watch world-class cyclists at the top of their game.”
Vantage Windows and Doors, already a strong sponsor of cycling, are the new naming sponsor.
“Vantage Windows and Doors are hugely supportive of sport throughout New Zealand and especially cycling,” said Vantage Windows and Doors spokeswoman Andrea Friar.
“We sponsor the New Zealand elite teams on both the road and track, and the opportunity to become naming sponsor of the Criterium National Championships is a natural fit and builds on our support for Cycling in New Zealand,” she said.
This year recreational riders will also get the chance to take part on the same innercity circuit in the Kiwivelo Street Race, which offers a rare opportunity for weekend warriors to get a taste of this exciting course and format.
It is sponsored by the local cycling store, Kiwivelo, owned by former Olympic and Commonwealth Games cyclists Scott and Vanessa Guyton.
“The street race is a great opportunity to race your mates and is suitable for all keen and experienced road cyclists looking for a different summer cycling challenge,” said the Guytons, who have been active supporters of this event since its inception.
The event that begins at 2pm on Sunday, November 11 comprises championship races for male and female Vantage Elite and Under-17s, as well as B grade and street races.