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K2 |
The K2 is the toughest one day cycle challenge in the Southern Hemisphere
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It is also one of the most scenic and varied with the route traveling through
sub tropical forest, pacific coastlines, rural farmland and the Puhutakawa
coastlineof the Hauraki Gulf.
The event is named after Kuaotunu, an enchanting community on the wild eastern coastline of the Coromandel Peninsula. In Maori, the name Kuaotunu means “to inspire fear in young animals” ! The 2 represents the almost 200km that the ride will cover. By coincidence K2 is the 2nd highest, and probably the most difficult to climb, mountain in the World.
The event is also unique in that it comprises of four continuous stages and starts in a new town each year.
This years race marks the 6th anniversary of the K2 and this year the race will start in Thames and travel in an anticlockwise direction through Tairua, Whitianga, Coromandel and back to Thames.
| Stage | Stage Name | Route | Distance Km’s |
| 1 | Kopu-Hikuai | Thames – Tairua | 53 |
| 2 | Coroglen | Tairua – Whitianga | 43 |
| 3 | Kuaotunu | Whitianga – Coromandel | 43 |
| 4 | Kerata | Coromandel – Thames | 53 |
| Total Distance | 192 km | ||
The K2 has two starts:
The K2 Elite Race – Starts at 7:45am
This race is for professional and semi professional riders who are likely
to complete the K2 course in less than 6 hours.
The K2 – Main Race – Starts at 8.00am
This race is for the weekend warriers and recreational riders.