“It’s always pretty exciting – it’s a hell of a lot of work,” Cheatley said.
“The weather forecast looks quite good for Saturday ... fingers crossed.”
Cheatley said conditions needed to be as dry as possible and minimal wind to prevent riders from injuring themselves on the wooden track.
The carnival was established by the Wanganui Cycling Club in 1948, but was cancelled for three consecutive years during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Cheatley, who has been involved with the club since 1962, said the Wheelrace used to run on Boxing Day after the Cemetery Circuit motorcycle races.
“That went on for many years when I joined the club – that was a huge night,” he said.
Cheatley thought the event had stood the test of time because of strong leadership, facilities and its growing history.
“Whanganui has got a bit of a reputation for being able to organise cycle races pretty good because we’ve had plenty of experience with it,” he said.
“It’s always had very good organisers within the club ... there’s been some very experienced people that have come through.”
Cheatley said many former members went on to become prominent presidents, life members and coaches within New Zealand cycling.
The history and success had a knock-on effect for younger riders and members, he said.
Throughout the years, the Wheelrace has had notable competitors such as Olympic bronze medallist Simon Van Velthooven and Manawatū’s Campbell Stewart, an Olympic silver medallist.
Wellington’s Hubertus Buyck won last year’s feature race.
Cheatley praised the “fantastic support” from main sponsor New World Whanganui and other businesses sponsoring races.
He was particularly looking forward to 2028’s edition as the club celebrated its 100th anniversary.
Fin Ocheduszko Brown is a multimedia journalist based in Whanganui.
