National Park kids show cycle skills

School age cyclists in National Park have taken out top honours in the Mountains Cycle Skills challenge.

Organised by Horizons road safety co-ordinator Phoebe Harrison, along with colleagues from New Zealand Police and Road Sense, the event was the first of its kind in the central North Island.

Held at Taupo's Tauhara Primary School, the event involved students from National Park, Taupo, Tokoroa and Broadlands schools. Cycle safety exercises included theory tests, helmet fitting, practical skills and obstacle tests. The competition was designed to encourage cycle safety and skills amongst the school aged children.

National Park School students Jaime Ratlidge and Logan Lawrence represented Ruapehu after following their success at a local competition in early November.

Logan came first place in the individual boys section and was also overall winner. First place in the girls individual was Lisa Hutt of Broadlands School. 

Phoebe Harrison says she was very proud of the efforts and skills shown by all competitors.

"It's great that our Ruapehu kids did so well in the competition. They showed an impressive amount of cycle knowledge and skills."

Winning National Park cyclist Logan Lawrence is flanked by Taupo mayor Rick Cooper and Police representative Steve Bullock. Photo supplied.

Ruapehu Bulletin ~ 8 December 2009