After a hugely successful first year, we’re back in 2026 to race in memory of Darren Wispinski.
Darren had cycling in his blood from age 12. As a novice he raced all over NZ – Southland Tours, Tamahini Tours, Criteriums, Nationals, Queenstown Snowline Tours, the Hydro Grand and more. At 19 he moved to Gent and rode two seasons for Belgium’s La Redoute team, racing the amateur Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Belgium. Back home, that experience and determination carried him into A Grade. He was a well-respected rider and teammate – not a sprinter, but a strong climber and a standout over longer distances.
In 1998 Darren was diagnosed with leukaemia – the biggest race of his life. His endurance, determination and love for his family saw him through a 27-year battle with cancer.
This year’s event marks two years since Darren’s passing. His wife Karen and daughters Ruby, Stella and Lucy invite you to race in his honour – an event the family hopes to keep running with Cycling Otago for years to come.
Kindly sponsored by Foleys Plumbing, with part of every entry going to Otago Hospice. Karen and family will provide free refreshments after the race, and present a Memorial Trophy for fastest time plus trophies for over-the-line and age-group placings.
Circuit: 4 laps of an 18km circuit (72km total), starting and finishing on Huntly Road, Outram.
Sign on: 9.45–10.30am at West Taieri (Outram) Rugby Club. Briefing 10.45am, first riders off 11am.
Cost: $30 seniors, $15 under 19s (includes a $5 donation to Otago Hospice).
Entry: Handicap race based on riders’ known form. Fees paid in advance via the entry form.
Trophies: 1st–5th over the line, plus 1st–3rd male and female in each age group – Under 19, 19–34, 35–49, 50–59, 60+.
Prize giving: Cycling Otago Club Rooms, Wickcliffe St, Mosgiel, after the race – free refreshments included.
