After days of rain and miserable weather, Sunday the 27th arrived fine and clear. A group of 8 intrepid riders met at Rex Morpeth Park on time even with day-light savings starting. Although it must have been too early for some, because Dave forgot his shoes.

Three vehicles took off with occupants full of anticipation for a great days ride in a neat area of the country. We arrived at the road end car park and piled out – everyone then going through their own pre-ride rituals – some taking longer than others – before the essential pre-ride photo.

The Whirinaki Forest Mountain Bike Track is described by DOC as a Grade 2 - 3 of 2 – 4 hours riding. With a surprisingly dry and rideable track after so much rain, our group was able to cruise through the 16k’s in around 1 ½ hours.  The first part of the track was a gradual climb, but nothing too strenuous.  The majority was reasonably uneventful apart from a broken chain and some compulsory photo stops.

After another couple of small catch-up breaks and more jelly jet planes (bribery) and photos, the only real uphill was tackled and then the real fun started!  It was all downhill from there….literally!  The second half of the trail follows an old forestry road through regenerating native bush. This brushes past you as you swoop, hop, dance and smile your way down……sweet!!  Well worth the effort!!

Hot sausages, bread and Watties tomato sauce time…yum yum

As everyone ate, conversation moved to the topic of the NEW mountain bike track that DOC have opened at Whirinaki.  Kim, Andrew and myself went for a meander up the first kilometre or so of the trail up to the Canyon bridge.  First impressions were that this would be worth checking out on two wheels – needless to say plans were soon being hatched to visit and ride this latest addition.

By all accounts everyone had a good time – thanks to those that joined me for a fun, relaxing, no-fuss type of day – the best way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon.  

Club members were:

Warwick Farmer (organizer)

Murray Lucas

Ian Whitfield

Paul Manson

Andrew Torrens

Dave “chain breaker” Ball

Leon Woods

Kim van der Aa