Gutbuster keeps on growing

Raetihi Gutbuster founders Michael Conway and wife Lucy on their oversized bike for three, reflect the fun nature of the annual event. Photo/File

Cyclists with a taste for history have made the Easter Sunday Raetihi Gutbuster one of the most popular community events.

Created to celebrate the sealing of the historic road between Pipiriki on the Whanganui River and Raetihi at the foot of Mt Ruapehu, the Gutbuster is now in its fourth year and is generating increasing interest every year.

All the Gutbuster races start in Raetihi and follow the historic Raetihi-Pipiriki Rd, which in the 1800s was the primary access to the central North Island.

Gutbuster organiser, Lucy Conway, said that the 2014 event is gearing up to be one of the best yet with more early entries received for the event than any previous year.

"So far the ages range from 4 to 74, with an even split between male and female.

"As well as the attraction of getting to run or ride through classic farmland, the Whanganui National Park, and view some of NZ's most iconic scenery, entrants really enjoy the sense of history that the Gutbuster invokes.

"This year we now have four events on offer with a new 18km fun run being added to the three usual cycling options including the 25km downhill only ride.

"Places are still available for all four events and although the 50km ride and the 18km ride or run can be entered on the day the 25km downhill only ride is limited to 20, so it's first in, first served."

Conway said the Gutbuster was aimed at the local Raetihi community who continue to be big supporters of the event.

"The focus of the day has always been on fun and participation. The Gutbuster has an event that suits all ages, abilities and levels of competitiveness," she said.

"In order to encourage people to give the event a go the entry fees have been kept as low as possible. Even with the $10 early bird discount on each event that expired last Friday the 18km ride or run is still only $20, the 50km ride $35 and the 25km downhill only ride only $47."

"As well as a great market day atmosphere there are some fantastic spot prizes on offer including season passes for Ruapehu Alpine Lifts and jet boat trips on the Whanganui River to the Bridge to Nowhere."

Conway said that anyone interested in entering one of the Gutbuster events could call her on (06) 385 3123, email mikenlucy@xtra.co.nz, or visit the Facebook page RaetihiGutbusterCycleRide or check out www.raetihi.com