Sun The
March 23, 2012
Sun Weather
Today 14-26
Saturday 15-22
174 -186 Alabama Road, Blenheim 7240
Blenheim Marlborough
Sunday 9-20
Outlook for Today
Monday 10-20 Early cloud, then fine. Northwesterlies.
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Ride on Philip on his old clanger By Annabelle Latz It’s his backside he’s most worried about, for the 101km bike ride tomorrow. Philip Hughes is taking on the Forrest Grape Ride for the fourth time, but this year’s theme is secretly under wraps. He featured as a butler in 2009, and his wife Wendy was a maid. Old bikes was the theme that year, and he’s pulling it out for another whirl tomorrow. “It’s from the 1940’s I’d say.” One badge says The Rally Nottingham England, and another says Supplied By Wilson and McLeod, Invercargill. It has a back pedal brake, that doesn’t work too well these days. “You have to stand up on the pedal to make it work properly.” Philip has also ridden the Grape Ride on his Genius road bike, in 2007 and 2008, with his best time being just over three hours. He said it’s a different day out on his vintage bike donning a costume. “It will probably take about four hours, depends on the wind because I’m very upright on this bike.” He said the reaction from other riders and spectators always brings a laugh, causing a few heads to turn. “It’s completely different clanging along like this!” He hasn’t done as much training this year compared to previous events due to work commitments, but isn’t too worried. “It’s all about making it as much fun as possible.” Although he won’t disclose much about this year’s costume, he said he’ll put a basket on the handlebars with a few dates, muesli bars and licorice to keep him going. “I might add in a blanket, just to make it look like I’m going for a picnic.” He’ll also carry a spare tube, just in case.
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