With the scheduled 2020 event postponed, March 2021 marked a significant milestone for the BDO Tour of Northland, as it commemorated its 20th edition. Since 2001, the iconic Northland event has played host to approximately 300 riders from across New Zealand and usually throughout the world. With Covid-19 travel restrictions still in place, this year's event still managed to attract around 260 keen riders to the Northland region – including many BDO cyclists from various offices.
For those not familiar with the event, participants begin in Whangarei and follow Northland’s fully sealed Twin Coast Discovery Highway, stopping in Russell, Paihia, Opononi and Dargaville, before looping back round to the Whangarei finish line. Riders who successfully complete the event, clock up an impressive 359km over the 4-day coastal challenge.
BDO Northland have proudly sponsored the Tour of Northland event for many years and are delighted with the resilience shown by event co-ordinators Dynamo Events, whom in the face of ever changing Covid-19 Alert Levels still managed to put together a safe, successful, and well executed event.
What BDO enjoy most about the Tour of Northland sponsorship, is how it helps bring BDO staff members from across the country and BDO clients together, many of whom are passionate cyclists. It also provides the opportunity to help support the next generation of cycling talent across the Northland region. BDO Whangarei are proud to sponsor three talented locals: Jorja Swain, Kurt Coetzee and Trevor Coetzee, who vary in age from 16 – 20, all of whom proudly represent the region in various events throughout the country. Jorja had university commitments this year and was unable to compete – we are sure she will be back in 2022. Trevor took on the full 4-day coastal challenge for the first time in 2021 within the Junior Male Category and placed first. Kurt rode very strongly to record his best result, finishing 7th overall in the general classification. We congratulate these young riders but also all of the BDO cyclists who took part in the challenge.
Additionally, we take this opportunity to congratulate BDO cycling ambassador Fiona Southorn for her consistent and impressive cycling on every stage.
On behalf of our entire team, we thank all of this year’s participants for supporting the event - it is rumoured that there may be an amended course next year and we look forward to seeing you all in 2022!