Rugby to benefit from trail ride

Rugby players will be the beneficiaries of this month’s Maungaturoto Country Club Trail Ride which can be tackled either on quad or motocross bikes.

The annual fundraiser, on Sunday November 25, incorporates about 50 kilometres of tracks across farms and through pine and native forest. The track is suitable for experts and novices and navigable by both motocross or quad bikes. 

For the second consecutive year, money raised will fund improvements to the rugby fields at Maungaturoto Country Club. Last year the main rugby field was regrassed; this year, funds will revamp the club’s second field. The Country Club has two affiliated rugby clubs – JMB and the Otamatea Hawks.   

Many riders who flock to this Kaipara trail ride, which is in its fifth year, come from Whangarei and Auckland. It also attracts locals, including some farmers who enjoy riding their farm bikes in a new environment.

Country Club member and JMB parent Mike Donald says the track features a variety of terrain and is popular with children and adults.

“Skilled riders can complete the track several times, aiming to improve their time and ability, while it also suits anyone who’s learning the sport or who just wants to experience riding on a motocross track.”

Maungaturoto Country Club president Rex Roadley says both the local senior and junior rugby clubs are important to the Country Club and the local community.

“Big thanks to everyone who supports the event – the farmers who let dirt bikers across their properties and the individuals and families who participate. They all help make the trail ride a success.”

He says that as the rugby fields also serve as an emergency land pad for rescue helicopters, they need to be well-drained and in good condition for ambulances.

The route to the trail ride, 8.5 km from Maungaturoto at Smales Farms on Golden Stairs Rd, will be signposted from State Highway One at the south side of the Brynderwyns. The tracks will open at 8.30am and close at 3pm. The entry fees are: Adults $30, Children under 16 $20, Families $70 (two adults and two children save $30, or one adult and three children save $20). There will be a mini track for children and food available all day. Riders must wear helmets and suitable footwear.

The Maungaturoto Country Club, a sports, social and conference centre with several affiliated clubs, including a motocross club, is operated and managed by volunteers. 

For more information contact Mike Donald 027 285-1408, jacq.donald@xtra.co.nz.