Leefield opens gates to biking brigade

There is a new and exciting event on the Marlborough cycling calendar.

The first, public, edition of Grape & Gravel: Great Bike Race was staged against the picturesque backdrop of Leefield Station in the Waihopai Valley on Saturday.

Over 100 riders mounted up for a chance to wend their way through the vineyard paths of the iconic farm, relishing the opportunity to explore new territory and take on new challenges.

The event was staged on an 8km circular course, with riders completing as many laps as they wanted, or could manage, in an allotted time. There were sections for teams, pairs and e-bikes.

One of the course features was a detour through the old Station woolshed, requiring good balance and navigation, especially for the lone tandem cycle in the field.

Leefield Station owner Brent Marris was among the riders.

He said the idea of opening the sheep/beef and grape-growing land up to eager cyclists had been in the pipeline for some time and last year family and friends had tested out the course and loved the experience, paving the way for the staging of the public event.

He envisaged creating a “picnic atmosphere” among the vines, where riders of all ages and skill levels could cycle the course together and enjoy the experience, while showcasing what Marlborough has to offer.

The general feeling among the riders post-race on Saturday suggests that this event is here to stay.

The owners were thrilled with the course, plus the turnout, and are keen to consider making it an annual event, perhaps with a few more innovations.

Watch this space.