Napier firm lends support to cycling carnival

BDO associate Suzie Clifford, left, managing director David Pearson and advisory partners Lisa Townshend and Heather Hallam are gearing up for next year's carnival. Photo / Supplied

Next year's Hawke's Bay Summer Cycling Carnival is fast approaching, with its heady mix of elite competition and relaxed family riding taking in the stunning landscapes of the region.

Entering its third year, the event being held from January 5 to 10 had attracted multiple sponsors, and now the team from local business advisory and accountancy firm BDO have taken their passion for road cycling and added their support.

BDO managing director David Pearson, who was based in Napier along with his team, said the company chose its partnerships carefully and that cycling had great appeal as it ticked a number of important boxes.

"Our staff love to cycle for relaxation and to take time out from their busy lives, and our clients see the enormous health benefits cycling provides."

BDO already supported cycling skills programmes in primary schools, as well as a large number of other road cycling races and challenges around the country.

Mr Pearson said he was looking forward to seeing BDO clients and colleagues in the saddle as part of the January 2018 carnival.

"The carnival is that wonderful combination of fitness and fun – all delivered by a council that shares our appetite for appealing, well-managed, high profile events."

Napier City Council welcomed the generous support of BDO, and mayor Bill Dalton said it was great to see locally based businesses enjoying the many events the council offered to the community and visitors to the region.

"BDO believes in what we're achieving with our event calendar and, in particular, sees great synergies with our emphasis on health and wellness. Napier City Council is thrilled to have them on board for our upcoming carnival. We hope they see it as hugely complementary to their other social impact priorities and we look forward to a close ongoing relationship."

For its sponsorship BDO had picked up naming rights sponsorship of the Elite and U23 Road National Champs. Other carnival sponsors included Cycling NZ and APL Window Solutions.

Some changes had been made to the cycling championship this year to further develop the course and enhance the rider experience.

From January 5 to 7 the main change had been the removal of the final out-and-back lap with an extra lap of the famous Napier Hill replacing it, and along with a small increase to the overall race distances would make for a more streamlined and enjoyable ride for competitors.

The carnival also included the Bay Espresso Winery Fun Ride, the Black Barn Vineyards Criterium, the Traffic Design Group Flying Lap and the Tineli Gran Fondo Ride.
For a full programme of events go to www.summercyclingcarnival.co.nz