Trip to raise funds in memory of late friend

A Dunedin cycling group will pedal 2700km across the country in memory of their friend who died while out for a ride last year.

On a North Island cycling trip, Mike Doig, of Dunedin, suffered a fatal injury when he came off his bike in gravel.

Nearly a year later, the Phantom Riders — a Dunedin-based cycling group — will come together to celebrate what he enjoyed most in life.

Phantom Riders fundraising co-ordinator Richard Blaikie said the focus of the journey would be fellowship, admiring scenery and remembering Mr Doig, who was 71 when he died.

"Some of us will probably buy an extra flat white along the way for Mike," he said.

"He’d be happy we’re doing this. He would not want us to be doing anything but enjoying the outdoors, as he enjoyed the outdoors so much."

The Phantoms embarked on their first and only national tour ten years ago.

Mr Doig had always wanted the group to do another.

The group of 10 cyclists would set off from Cape Reinga on March 2, pedalling their way down south to Bluff by March 23 — a 22-day trip.

The tour would include passing through destinations they were not able to make last year due to Cyclone Gabrielle including highly anticipated Herbertville, near Napier.

They had set a goal of $10,000 and a sponsorship target of $10 per kilometre, and would give all funds raised to the Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service.

Prof Blaikie said members had required aid from the rescue helicopters in the past, so the service was the perfect sponsor for this year’s tour.

Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service paramedics (from left) Ross Kirkpatrick, Dave Andrews,...
Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service paramedics (from left) Ross Kirkpatrick, Dave Andrews, Andrew Duncan and James Rowland are joined by members of the Phantom Riders cycling group Richard Blaikie, David Lont, Allan Sutherland, Rob Cunningham, Mike Adair and David Milne. PHOTO: STEPHEN JAQUIERY
Phantom Riders committee member David Milne said Mr Doig’s death made the 10th anniversary of their New Zealand tour especially poignant.

"We were going to do this regardless.

"He was our oldest member of the group, but was the most enthusiastic I’d say — that’s why we want to do this."

Mr Milne said three members had required the aid of the rescue helicopters for other incidents.

Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Service paramedic team leader Ross Kirkpatrick said incidents involving road cyclists and mountainbikers were a "frequent occurrence" and advised cyclists to wear a helmet and ride sensibly.

 - Anyone wishing to make a donation in support of the Phantom Riders can do so via their Givealittle page.

tim.scott@odt.co.nz

 

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