Franklin's top jockeys switch to pedal power

Franklin’s top jockeys will be a little out of sorts at Pukekohe Park Raceway on 23 February when they switch from four legs to pedal power.

At least six of Franklin’s top jockeys will be leaving the horses at home and instead vying for top honours in the VIP race at Franklin’s Bike Wise Mayoral Challenge.
Clothed in their racing silks, yet riding BMX bikes, the ‘Jockey’s Jaunt’ will be a highlight at the Franklin Bike Wise Mayoral Challenge.

The event gives the community a chance to challenge Mayor Mark Ball around the track as well as enjoying a fun night of cycling and entertainment.

The ‘Jockey’s Jaunt’ will feature local jockeys Cody Singer, Jason and Tash Collett, Danielle Johnson, and more still to be confirmed.

Franklin District Council Mayor Mark Ball says, “The jockey’s are competing for high stakes – the honour of being named BMX Jockey! Make sure you make it down to the track to participate in the challenge – or even just to watch what will prove to be a fantastic VIP race.”

The twilight Mayoral Challenge event will be a great night of fun family cycling on an iconic track, while also featuring the special ‘Jockey’s Jaunt’, the sounds of DJ Lenny, a sausage sizzle, healthy snacks, a water bottle for each participant, and spot prizes.”

Bring your bikes, trikes and helmets along for a fantastic night of cycling and entertainment.
The Mayoral Challenge is a national event – pitching area against area to find a winner. Around 740 people participated in the Franklin event last year, resulting in 5th place for the 58,000+ category Franklin was placed in. This year one point is awarded for each participant, and the winning towns will have the highest percentage of their population participating.

The Challenge is part of Bike Wise Month, which promotes cycling’s profile to get even more Kiwis to realise or re-discover how enjoyable and convenient it is.

Bike Wise Month is funded by the NZ Transport Agency and the Ministry of Health and the Franklin Mayoral Challenge co-ordinated by the Franklin District Council and Counties Manukau Sport.
No registration is necessary – just turn up on the night.

Mayoral Challenge 2010
Pukekohe Park Raceway
23 February 2009, 6-8pm.