Chain Reaction Challenge Update — Day 1

Christchurch Prologue

The first day of the Chain Reaction Challenge has arrived, and despite the late start, the cyclists are eager to hit the road

Starting near the airport in Christchurch, the Chain Reaction peloton will make their way to Victoria Square for a traditional Māori welcome

We were welcomed by the local kaumātua, Dave and Uncle Willy, with a pōwhiri ceremony. This traditional Māori welcome involves speeches, songs, and dances to honor guests and ask for their safe passage. The ceremony typically begins with a wero, a challenge issued by a warrior to the guests to ensure their intentions are peaceful. The host then welcomes the guests with speeches, songs, and dances, and the guests are invited to respond in kind. This would normally be followed by a hongi, a pressing of noses, which symbolizes the sharing of breath and life, and is a sign of peace and friendship. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we did the East Coast wave instead. The pōwhiri is an important part of Māori culture and is often performed to mark significant events, such as the arrival of visitors or the start of a journey. The blessing for a safe voyage is an integral part of the pōwhiri, as it asks for the protection of the gods and ancestors for the travelers on their journey

From there, we begin our 70 km journey, which takes us through bustling city streets and into the rolling countryside. Along the way, we enjoy breathtaking views of the city and countryside, as well as the opportunity to soak up the local culture and scenery. We pedaled past the iconic Bicycle Thief Restaurant, wishing we could taste the delicious cuisine and laid-back atmosphere that this city is known for. As we approach the Tai Tapu Hotel, I’m sure a few of us could have stopped in for a cheeky ale. With this local training loop, the Chain Reaction riders will ease into the 7-day challenge, shake off any nerves, and get a feel for how the combined peloton rides. It’s pretty damn good, I might add! It’s time to get those pedals turning and start exploring the beauty of Christchurch!

So far, the ride has been relatively easy, with 42 km done and dusted and only 177 meters of elevation gain — so far…

But we are about to face a new challenge as we approach the Church of the Epiphany. Here, I’m thinking we’ll take a moment to catch our breath, shed any unwanted clothes, ditch any excess water, and prepare for the 7.6 km climb that awaits us. Well, that’s normally what happens, but it was a rolling start to “free play” (allowed to ride at own pace for a specified section and regroup at the end) — ride on. With an average gradient of 6% and a maximum of 20%, this climb is not for the faint of heart.

Red face equals hard….. great view thoughtThe 465 meters of elevation gain will put our legs to the test, but the stunning views from the top will be worth the effort. After regrouping near the Coopers Knob/Ōmāwete Scenic Lookout, cyclists will embark on a 7 km journey through an undulating plateau. This may sound like a gentle respite from the climb, but as any seasoned cyclist will tell you, these ups and downs can be surprisingly tiring. With a wry smile, we powered through some excellent ups and downs, knowing that our dedicated crew had set up at the bottom of these rollers. Awaiting us were a bunch of goodies — water, hydration mix, gels, fruit — yes please!”

Goodies being gobbledA quick break, goodies devoured, water on board — the break was done, time to hit the road again. The peloton descended through Cashmere, a 5.7 km journey back into the heart of Christchurch. With the end of the day in sight, the riders picked up the pace, eager to make it back to the hotel. The final run, along pancake-flat roads, will be a breeze, with the knowledge that warm showers and cold beers await them. In no time at all, we were back at the Commodore Airport Hotel, ready to reflect on a day of adventure and accomplishment over a lovely lunch!

This is just the beginning of the 7-day Chain Reaction Challenge, and with each day, the riders will be pushed to their limits but will also discover new sights, new friends, and a new appreciation for the beauty of New Zealand. Let’s see what tomorrow brings!

Want to see some of the amazing country this challenge will take use through 👉 here

Kia ora for reading, and haere rā. Mike

By Mike Carpendale on February 26, 2023.Canonical linkExported from Medium on February 19, 2026.