A small pride of Winton Lions Club members will pedal their way from the tip of Aotearoa to the bottom of the South Island to fund the construction of an emergency helipad in Winton.
Inge de Kruijf and Janet and Wim Overgaauw did not consider themselves "athletic people" but the three friends will start their 3000km e-bike adventure at Cape Reinga on Saturday with the goal to have completed their charity ride by mid-April.
"We are not too young, but believe it’s doable," Mrs de Kruijf said.
"We started planning this a year ago, started practising and training and have equipped our bikes."
Mrs de Kruijf hoped their Cycling for Helipad Winton ride would raise awareness about the sorely needed helipad.
For several years, rescue helicopters had been landing "on a rugby field in the centre of Winton".
The Lions Club cycling enthusiasts hoped their bike riding expedition would "kick off other charity events in the community" to get donations.
Winton Lions Club secretary Juon Schoen said the Winton Lions Club had come on board, along with Rotary, in support of the helipad.
"It’s quite unique having Lions and Rotary working hand in hand to make it possible for our community," he said.
The Oreti Community Board and Helicopters Otago have also been instrumental in assisting the Lions Club Winton with the initiative.
■To find out more or to give to the cause, go to the Cycling for helipad Winton Facebook page.
- By Nina Tapu
