Bike festival a quick ride to fitness

The Greytown Bike N Hike on February 15 is raising funds for a much needed new minivan for Kuranui College. The 5-10km course follows the route of the Greytown to Woodside rail trail.

Kuranui College is encouraging people to get on their bikes.

The school is hosting Bike N Hike, a fun running, cycling or walking event along the route of the old Greytown to Woodside railway line, on Sunday, February 15, as part of the Huri Huri Wairarapa Bike Festival.

Funds raised will go towards the purchase of a new minivan.

Kuranui College principal Geoff Shepherd said the school was lucky to have the trail right on its doorstep.

"The trail provides a great opportunity for both locals and visitors to get active, get outside and appreciate the picturesque surroundings. The college has often talked about using the trail for a school event and this is a great way to bring the South Wairarapa community together."

Over the past few years, students had helped clear the trail and plant new native grasses, trees and shrubs along the route, Mr Shepherd said.

Organiser Erin Collins said she was eager to make the day a fun family outing.

"We originally thought about doing a half marathon but that's a big undertaking, so we thought we'd just do something fun."

There would be plenty of spot prizes provided by local businesses, and prizes for the best-dressed participants, Mrs Collins said.

Those taking part can choose from either a 5km or 10km cycle or run/walk.

The course starts at the corner of Cotter St and Governor's Green Dr and finishes at either Stouts Corner or Woodside Station, depending on the distance chosen.

The price of entry is $10 for individuals, $30 for teams of up to four riders or $20 for a family of two adults and two children.

Registration is online at http://www.bikenhikegreytown.com