K2
The K2 is the toughest one day cycle challenge in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also one of the most scenic and varied with the route traveling through sub tropical forest, pacific coastlines, rural farmland and the Puhutakawa coastline of the Hauraki Gulf.
http://www.arcevents.co.nz/k2cycle/content/?page_id=56
27 October 2012
Tairua, Whitianga, Coromandel and back to Thames.
Coromandel Peninsula
Cycle
K2 – 2,300 metres of screaming descent !
The K2 is the toughest one day cycle challenge in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also one of the most scenic and varied with the route traveling through sub tropical forest, pacific coastlines, rural farmland and the Puhutakawa coastline of the Hauraki Gulf.
The event is named after Kuaotunu, an enchanting community on the wild eastern coastline of the Coromandel Peninsula. In Maori, the name Kuaotunu means “to inspire fear in young animals” ! The 2 represents the almost 200km that the ride will cover. By coincidence K2 is the 2nd highest, and probably the most difficult to climb, mountain in the World.
The event is also unique in that it comprises of four continuous stages and starts in a new town each year.
This years race marks the 10th anniversary of the K2 and this year the race will start in Thames and travel in an anticlockwise direction through Tairua, Whitianga, Coromandel and back to Thames.