Taupo Challenge 500 to Help Give Sick Kids a Fresh Future

Two Countdown employees are gearing up for a 24-hour endurance cycle event, the Taupo Challenge 500 where they will complete three laps of Lake Taupo to raise money for Progressive Enterprises Fresh Future childrens hospital appeal.

Adam Bentley and Phil Read have organised the gruelling event around Lake Taupo, to start at midday on 2 October and are inviting other cyclists to join them for all or part of the 500km journey. 

"We've estimated it will take us about six to seven hours for each lap with short rest periods in between, so it's no mean feat and we look forward to having the company of other riders along the way," said Adam.

Cyclists can participate as individuals or part of a relay team, with all entry fees going towards Fresh Future childrens hospital appeal. This appeal supports paediatric care at Kidz First Children's Hospital, Auckland, and dedicated children's wards at Otago, Christchurch, Waikato, Wellington, Whangarei, Tauranga, Hawke's Bay, Greymouth and Invercargill.

Adam and Phil have been training for six months, and although they don't have any firm fundraising targets, Adam says they would love to raise $50,000. Donations can be made via Adam and Phil's fundraising pages at www.fundraiseonline.co.nz and in store at Countdown Taupo.

"Supporting children's hospitals is something that we can all relate to," Adam says. "We never know when our own children might need medical treatment or facilities."

With the support of Progressive Enterprises, Adam and Phil are appealing for sponsorship, as well as encouraging others to take part in the challenge. Countdown Taupo will be kicking off the Challenge 500 with a community market day, featuring face painting, lolly scrambles, and lots of treats for all the family.

Fresh Future appeal committee chairperson Ruth Krippner says the Taupo Challenge 500 is just one way communities can get behind the children's hospital appeal to help the recovery of thousands of sick kids across the country. Ruth encourages the local community to support the event by coming down to the start line and giving all the cyclists a big Taupo send off. Adding to the attractions, the Harley-Davidson motorcycle club will lead off the race and the NZ Fire Service will bring down a couple of fire trucks, with a few surprises up their sleeves for the kids.

Taupo Bike Challenge 500 information can be found at www.countdown.co.nz