Cyclists Set For Exhilarating Spin Around Wind Farm

Cyclist and running enthusiasts will get up close and personal with White Hill’s towering turbines on Saturday 7 March when they take part in the 2009 White Hill Wind Farm Classic Bike Ride and Run.

The event navigates around some of Meridian’s 29 turbines and offers something for everyone. For the serious competitors there is the true test of energy; a 22km cycle or 13km cross country run. For those who want to spend a bit more time taking in the views, there is the 11km recreational bike and 6km ‘Kiddies Canter’.

Organising Committee Chairman John Douglas says he is thrilled at the response from the local community who are really getting in behind the event.

“Everyone has really pitched in to do their part, including Mayor Frana Cardno who will start the race. All proceeds raised from this event will go towards the Mossburn Pool Committee so we are grateful to Meridian for their help in getting the event off the ground,” he says.

“The track has been designed by a group of cycle enthusiasts from Mossburn to be a moderate level ride. The event focuses on fun and getting people out and about in the fresh air and enjoying the stunning countryside. The race provides a perfect opportunity to have a go at a rider friendly track – even for me and my riding compatriots of a certain age,” he added.

Meridian External Relations Manager Claire Shaw says runners and riders can expect some spectacular views along the way.

“Meridian is proud to sponsor this inaugural event. It gives us an opportunity to celebrate the White Hill site with the local community - who were so supportive during its construction,” she says.

“Not only will competitors get to encounter the 107m tall wind turbines, they will also have incredible and rarely seen views of the Takitimu and Eyre mountains. The course takes riders and runners up a steady gradient of 670 metres – making for some amazing views – but also some exhilarating down-hill drops on the bike,” she added.

There will also be a BBQ sizzling all afternoon that competitors and spectators can enjoy for just $5. Some fantastic prizes, including a brand new mountain bike, will be up for grabs as well.

The 2009 White Hill Wind Farm Classic Bike Ride and Run will begin with a briefing at 1:15pm on 7 March. The full course bike ride commences at 1:30pm.

Northern Coachlines will transport competitors and spectators to the Wind Farm for a gold coin donation.

Those who wish to race should visit www.sportsouthland.co.nz  to download an entry form.

Event Information

Name: 2009 White Hill Wind Farm Classic Bike Ride and Run
Date: 7 March 2009
Location: White hill Wind Farm, Mossburn
Schedule: 1:15pm Briefing – compulsory for all competitors
1:30pm Full Course Bike Ride begins
1:30pm Recreational Bike Ride begins
1:35pm Cross Country Run begins
1:45pm Kiddies Canter begins
4:00pm Prize Giving begins.

RESERVE DAY – SUNDAY 8TH MARCH 2009 (in case of extreme weather)


Background - White Hill Wind Farm

The White Hill wind farm is Meridian’s second wind farm development and was constructed on an 8km by 3km section of forestry land in Southland, south-east of Mossburn.

The site is ideal for wind-powered electricity generation due to the strong and consistent natural wind in the area. The 29-turbine wind farm has the potential to provide power for up to 30,000 homes.

The wind farm was officially opened by Prime Minister Helen Clark in a community based ceremony on 8 June 2007.