Cycle of giving commemorated in style

It’s a partnership that’s spanned decades, a local cycling club and a family with close ties to the sport.

Cuddon Cycling Marlborough benefits from the backing of patrons John and Robyn Cuddon.

Owners of Cuddon Limited, they have been the naming sponsor for 30 years of the club’s 94-year history.

The milestone anniversary has been marked with the presentation of a special framed Club jersey, now hanging in pride of place at Cuddon’s Blenheim office.

Club development officer Warren Hall says the sponsorship has helped in countless ways over the years.

“They’ve been wonderfully supportive and really go the extra mile.

“It’s not just about the money, they really care about what we’re up to and we certainly consider ourselves very lucky to have that.

“They have also regularly contributed beyond their annual sponsorship to assist with things like travel costs and signage.”

The club’s youngest registered regular club rider is 12 years-old and the oldest is 91.

All benefit from Cuddons’ support, with both family members and staff racing with the club over the years.

Robyn says they first became involved when their son took up cycling at high school, going on to compete nationally.

“It was so nice to get the jersey. They are such a neat bunch, and we just enjoy working with them.

“Over the years we’ve got to know and meet other parents and it’s just been such a pleasure.

“We’re very proud to see them with their jerseys on.”

In addition to financial support, John and Robyn Cuddon are proud advocates for the club and support the Southern Tour event by allowing members to use their driveway for a hill climb stage when they lived at Marlborough Ridge before the road became too busy.

“They called it the Cuddon Killer,” Robyn laughs.

Cuddon Cycling Marlborough has a proud history with many of its riders reaching New Zealand representation through the years.

The club runs a road and track programme with approximately 70 events per year.

“I can’t think of another cycling club in New Zealand that has enjoyed this level of support and for so long,” Warren says.

‘It’s quite unusual and much appreciated.”

[WH1]Which for many years included a hill climb stage which used their driveway when they lived at Marlborough Ridge.