Cycling: Flyer changes tack

It may be unlucky for some but organisers of the 100km Flyer will be hoping 13 works wonders for them.

The cycling event, in its 13th year, will for the first time reverse the course.

Starting in Taupo, more than 1500 cyclists will make their way through the Reporoa and Ngakuru countryside on their way to Rotorua.

Online entries close at 9am tomorrow, however late entries will be accepted at registration at the Taupo Events Centre on Friday evening and Saturday morning, before the start.

The 100k Flyer traditionally attracts a field of top New Zealand cyclists, with appearances from Pure Black and Subway riders in the past. Last year's winners, Chad Elliston and Kaytee Boyd, of Auckland, have not yet entered, however organiser Murray Fleming said many top riders waited until the day before to enter.

"They like to see what the weather is going to do first. It looks like perfect riding conditions in the long range forecast, so we will possibly get slammed with late entries."

Fleming said a strong field of Cycling Rotorua members had entered, including Saul Webb, second in 2012, Team Novo Nordisk rider Aaron Perry, Avanti Plus-sponsored rider Ben McHale and former World Singlespeed champion Garth Weinberg.

McHale was looking forward to the course adjustment.

"I am excited about racing in the new direction. The extra climbing will add a new dynamic to the race and should favour climbers over the sprinters.

"Race tactics will become more important which always makes for an interesting day on the bike," McHale said.

For more information, or to enter the event online, go to www.eventpromotions.co.nz