Blenheim-born cyclist Robin Reid will be taking on the longest race of his life when he starts the 505km Ultimate GrapeRide race this weekend.
But just how long it takes him has become a matter for debate as he encourages people to gamble on his finishing time after making a donation to the Red Cross Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.
Robin, 35, is keen to keep the Christchurch appeal in the minds of Kiwis and taking on five laps of the 101km GrapeRide circuit provided the perfect opportunity, he said. He completed three laps last year – not going for the five because of further racing commitments the following day.
The route goes from Renwick to Picton, round Queen Charlotte Dr to Havelock and back to Renwick. He said the hardest part physically would be Queen Charlotte Dr.
"But at the same time it's probably the most enjoyable."
"The most difficult part will probably be from Renwick through town and back up to Picton because it's the most boring and you'll be just finishing a lap and starting another one. It's as much of a mental thing as physical."
Robin, who works for bikewear company Tineli in Nelson, has done ultra-endurance races before, including the Nelson to Christchurch 450km race. But this will be the first time he has gone more than 500km in a single race.
Last year's winner of the Ultimate challenge finished in just over 17 hours, riding through the night to finish on Sunday morning, Robin said.
Log on to tineli.com to find out more about Robin's ride and if you donate more than $10 to the Red Cross appeal you can enter the time you think Robin will complete the course in. The closest time wins a full Tineli team kit.