Challenge 'mind over matter' for Balclutha rider

Reporter Clutha Leader

Engine tuned and tyres primed, a Balclutha bike enthusiast sets off on a gruelling 48-hour odyssey tomorrow.

Local business owner Glenn Davidson will be hitting the road at lunchtime for the 2017 TT2000 motorcycle rally.

Less a conventional point-to- point rally than a personal checkpoint challenge, riders take any route they wish to accumulate a minimum number of South Island-wide checkpoints and at least 2000km within 48 hours, thereby qualifying as a finisher.

There were no prizes for fastest or furthest, Davidson said.

"It's all about setting your own route and target according to your own bike and riding abilities. You can be out there riding for 35 of the 48 hours it runs, so you don't want to be taking stupid risks."

Rider fatigue was the toughest element to overcome, which he countered simply with regular food and water.

"The last thing you want at 3 in the morning is a headache. It's a case of mind over matter."

Participants last year collectively completed more than 300,000km, attracting just one speeding ticket in the process.

"There are those who would like to see these sorts of events shut down, but I don't believe they're any more dangerous than everyday riding. We all want to come in safely on Sunday, " Davidson said.