Less than two weeks after entries opened, interest is already high in Cycling Southland's Harrex Group Corporate Pursuit being held in June.

 

Organisers expect to easily fill the field of 32 corporate teams that will compete in New Zealand's only indoor velodrome in Invercargill in a grading time trial on Friday 18 June and then finals on Sunday 27 June.

 

Some teams have already started training even though organised coaching for the event does not start until 10 May. 

 

"Each year we aim to continue to develop this unique event as a positive experience for both the competitors and spectators alike," spokesperson for Cycling Southland Julian Ineson said.

 

"There have been a lot of businesses contacting the office for details, booking training on the track, and there are some businesses that are having some trials on the track prior to finalising their entries."

 

The Corporate Pursuit involves teams of four riders in an Italian-style pursuit, with one rider dropping off after each lap. The team with the fastest time over the four laps is the winner.

 

The event has proved to be a winning formula within the Southland business community with organisations seeing the team building and bonding elements as well as recognising its fun, encouraging environment and the chance to get on a bike and increase fitness levels.

 

The Corporate Pursuit was about getting new people into the sport, Ineson said

 

"We have lots of first time bike racers. It's great to see them get involved, get really enthusiastic about riding with many pushing on and getting road bikes and riding outdoors as well - it's great for the sport, with many going on to join Cycling Southland to compete or as officials or supporters of the club."

 

The programme includes six weeks of training with a dedicated coach for each team.

 

Organisers have exciting plans to lift the level of entertainment and atmosphere this year, raise the profile of the event and increase the number of spectators.