Flyers raise money for McHale fund

Jared Johnston, 21, rode from Rotorua to Taupo to help raise money for a worthy cause. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Two young cyclists have raised about $1400 for a fund set up in memory of the late Stephanie McHale.

The Rotorua Racing team took part in the Rotorua to Taupo 100K Flyer on Saturday to raise money for the fund, which benefits the Special Care Baby Unit at Rotorua Hospital. Mrs McHale, a new mum, was killed in a crash at Hemo Gorge last October.

Her husband Ben McHale had won the Flyer last year.

Team manager Ian Guy said the men rode really well.

"The two riders, Jared Johnston and Harry Phipps put in a great effort against a very strong field. Jared finished ninth overall, showing his potential as a top rider, as this is really his first season at this level.

"Harry is still an under 19 rider, and he did very well too, knocking six minutes off his personal best from last year. They didn't stop there either; both rode back home after the race," Mr Guy said.

He said the men raised about $1400, with a substantial donation from Rotorua Canopy Tours and a few more still coming in.

The fund is the brainchild of Revolve Rotorua, a cycling group that ran the Super V event in February that raised $1500 for the same cause.

Mr Guy said he would like to thank those who sponsored the riders and those that turned out to support the team, not only at the Flyer, but at other races.