CENTRAL PLATEAU SCOOTER CHALLENGE

Diposkan oleh Pengetahuan dan Pengalaman on Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Get your motors runnin'! 
Impressed by the success (both in terms of goodwill generated and money raised) of the South Island's Tranz Alpine Scooter Safari (see KR Aug '10), Wanganui scooter rider Terena Currey has organised a North Island version, the Central Plateau Scooter Challenge.

The inaugural Challenge is on Saturday March 26 with all proceeds going to the Child Cancer Foundation.

"The idea," says Terena, "is for a group of scooterists to ride from Wanganui to Taupo on 50cc scooters. Anyone can take part in the Challenge although I would prefer it if the scooters were as small as possible. It is after all a Challenge!"

"We will be leaving Trafalger Square Car Park in Wanganui at 7.30am and heading on a route that takes us first to Bulls, then up State Highway 1 to Taupo. There will be several stops along the way to relieve numb bottoms, and refuel both people and scooters. All stops will have toilets available and the chance for refreshments. More info is on the website, www.centralplateauscooterchallenge.co.nz.

"What I am after," Terna told Kiwi Rider, "is for people to gain sponsorship (a bit like the 40 hour Famine) for Child Cancer, which can be done by a straight donation of a set amount e.g. $20 for the run, or by sponsoring someone per km e.g. 10c per km. A fundraiseonline webpage is available for each rider and this link is under the 'Donate' tab on the website. It's easy to complete and a great way for people to get sponsored.

"The website will be regularly updated with information regarding the run, a form to register yourself and/or team, and other information such as the prizes available, t-shirts and even how to maintain your scooter for the challenge!

"It costs nothing to enter the Challenge, but I do encourage people to do their best with the fund-raising; you could get a fantastic prize if you win the category for the most money raised, best dressed male/female, best dressed scooter and many more..."

Already entered is Blair Newton (the man who's own battle with cancer inspired some Air NZ employees to set up the original Tranz Alpine Scooter event, plus Bonnieville Salt Flats regular Alan Thoreson of Black Thunder Racing.

Transport will be available from Auckland for scooters (first in, first served) and the email address is available on request. It works out to be about $35 per scooter return journey.
"Discounted accommodation in Taupo is available at Camelia Court Family Motel, $25 per person for the night. Cabin with linen provided, again the link is on the website under "Accommodation" on the website.

Terena says she was prompted to put togetehr the challenge after she discovered that the Child Cancer Foundation doesn't receive ANY government funding.

"The volunteers that try to raise money for the CCF are all parents who have either lost a child to cancer, or have a child that is in the process of going through treatment. The love and support that these people give to other families with a sick child is amazing and heartwarming. But they do need help with getting money to help the families afflicted with cancer. That is why I'm doing it!"