Telstraclear challenge
The TelstraClear Challenge is an annual cycling event held in Auckland that allows entrants to cycle over the Auckland Harbour Bridge, the only time each year that cyclists are allowed to do so. It is both a race and a leisure ride, aimed at cyclists of all skill levels.
History
The event was first run on the 11th of December 2011, and attracted approximately 4000 cyclists, despite the high wind that often buffets the Harbour Bridge. Auckland Mayor Len Brown competed in the race, highlighting the need for Auckland to transition to a cycling culture.
Cycling over the Harbour Bridge (which usually does not allow pedestrians or cyclists) was proposed soon after its completion in 1959, and many riders attempted it illegally. Due to the vehicle-centric design of the bridge, that was deemed impractical until the TelstraClear Challenge was successfully pitched to the NZTA. Rider safety was achieved by a row of 160 buses supplied by NZ Bus which protected the riders from oncoming traffic.
Future Events
As it is supported by Auckland Transport, The New Zealand Transport Agency and advocacy groups such as Cycle Action Auckland, the event is intended to be held annually. The 2012 event is set to take place on November 11, with a number of routes available catering to children, amateur cyclists, and professional cyclists.
The organisers hope for it to become seen as the cycling equivalent of the Auckland Marathon, a running event that also goes over the Harbour Bridge.