Yes, it's starting to get cold and the nights are closing in, but top cycling coach Amy Taylor says this is exactly the time to start training for the country's top ‘fun' ride.
Each year, over 10,000 people attempt the 160-kilometre Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge - either riding the whole distance or taking part in a relay team. It's an internationally famous race and open to everyone, from beginner cyclists to elite riders.
For many entrants, getting around the lake is a matter of hopping on the bike on the day and hoping like hell to make it to the other end.
But Taylor, Cycling Federation's 2008 Coach of the Year and author of the new Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge Guide, says this is definitely not the way to go.
"I see cyclists all the time who've done little or no real training for Taupo, or have started far too late. Even if they have managed to complete the course, they've paid for it for months afterwards with stiff joints, strains and exhaustion.
"On the other hand, if you train well, have a bike that fits you, and follow the rules about good cycling nutrition, you will have a wonderfully enjoyable ride, a great sense of achievement and recover fast at the end of it."
If you're new to the Taupo challenge and aiming to do the whole circuit, you need to start training now, Taylor says. Her excellent book has a 36-week training programme to gradually build your strength, stamina and speed. It includes plenty of rest days, and the occasional week off.
Cyclists who've tackled Taupo before need to start training in earnest by May. And if you're signing up for a 40-kilometre lap as part of a relay team you should get serious by August at the latest.
Recent free coaching clinics in Wellington and Auckland by Taylor and a top Taupo rider, Aaron Strong, attracted hundreds. "It seems the message about good training is getting out there," says Taylor.
This year's event will take place on Saturday, November 28.
