With a few days until entries close for the Around Brunner cycle race, organisers are confident of reaching 1200 entries.
In its third year, the event also features the final round of the elite National Points Series (NPS) with 45 elite riders entered in this separate race.
"We are really happy with the way things are looking and look forward to welcoming lots of new riders to the event as well as the ones who have done it before," Event Director Dale Coulter said.
The 160 teams entered is the largest number of team entries of any cycle event in the South Island.
"The recreational event is the heart and soul of the event, and the large number of team entries is fantastic - it signals great growth for the sport."
"There are large groups of friends and work colleagues entered," Coulter said.
"A great example is the large contingent from the National Bank Greymouth and West Coast branches that have entered - it will be a great day out of the office for them."
Sam Horgan from Christchurch will be back to defend the title he won last year in three hours and 17 minutes.
Racing in the elite NPS race this year he will have support from Subway-Avanti team mates Jason Allan, Michael Vink and Patrick Williamson.
They will be challenged by Christchurch based Benchmark team members Andrew Williams, Daniel Barry, James McCoy, James Early and Nick and Leon Hextall.
After winning last year's recreational event Shorty Allnutt from Hokitika has made the step up to the elite race, and the strong local rider should make his presence felt.
Jeannie Kuhajek from Nelson leads the female entries in the NPS race with last year's female winner Nicole Anderson, Josie Giddens and Aimee Burns expected to feature as well.
Organisers are keen to encourage local Greymouth businesses to be open on Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday morning to take full advantage of the extra numbers in town.
"The cyclists all have supporters with them, and we have been encouraging them to stay the weekend meaning there is a great opportunity for local cafes and restaurants to do really well out of the event," Coulter said.
Around Brunner covers 130 km starting and finishing in central Greymouth.
"It is a good honest West Coast workout that anyone can do," Coulter said.
Competitors can enter online at www.aroundbrunner.co.nz where there is further information about the event. Entries close this Sunday.
