NZ Challenge 2014 - Day Three

NZ Challenge 2014 - North Island

Turangi to Rotorua

Another early morning start. This time it was not for a long days riding, but to arrive early enough in Rotorua to visit and sample the thermal waters. A pleasant days riding without incident and again sucking in the beautiful New Zealand scenery. Our first scenic wonder was Lake Taupo. The largest inland lake in New Zealand. We followed the shore line for several kilometres stopping in the town of Lake Taupo. We first searched for a bike shop to find new cleated for Richard. Two bike shops in town and the type of cleat Richard uses were not in stock. Next stop coffee. You will notice this year all the photos have been taken during breaks. Our photographers are traveling with the teams and only get a chance to interact with he riders during their breaks. Food and hydration are important to keep our riders healthy and coffee shops make a good distraction from the many kilometres they chase down the road. Please be assured that while the photos are showing relaxed and fun times, the cyclists are putting in the hard yards. Suffering for the children in southern Africa who are suffering every day in their poverty.

Team 27 arrived just after lunch to find Graham H and the truck were not in sight. Graham was still back in Lake Taupo running some errands. Graham had all the luggage. Not be perturbed, half the guys headed down to Lake Rotorua for a swim. Lets say they had a paddle. a hundred meters out into the lake and the water was still only knee deep. Team 20 had their own way of cooling of with a water fight. After the swim Hedgy and turned up with the luggage and Team 20 had arrived in Rotorua. Everyone then met at the Polynesian Spa to sample the thermal springs of Rotorua. Relaxing 38 degree mineral water. The perfect remedy for road weary muscles. Team 20 still had a commitment to finish their ride, so off onto their bikes while Team 27 went to look at the hot water lakes and steam vents. Andrew F wanted to see bubbling mud.

We finished our day watching videos and photos and reading the Facebook comments and encouragements. We also watched a short video on the Day in the Life a student at Eagles Wings. Describing the hard ship they suffer each day but also they hope they have in the education they are receiving. This helps put into perspective the reason they are riding. Please stop to watch the video on the Eagles Wings website.