Bike Wanaka’s famous 10-hour mountain bike race is on again at Dean’s Bank this coming Labour Weekend.

Now in its ninth year, the race takes place on the purpose built 11km- loop track where individuals or teams of up to five lap the track for 10 straight hours. Or - if you fancy a sleep in - there’s also a solo five hour race.

For the third year in a row, event sponsor Dunlop Builders is hosting the ‘Golden Pedal Tradies Challenge’.

Everyone working locally in the trade sector is encouraged to put down the pies, and put their foot to the pedal to compete for the coveted Golden Pedal trophy.

The Tradies Challenge is designed to get more people involved in mountain biking - an activity that’s great for both mind and body.

“We already know that mental health is a huge issue in the construction sector, and 2020 has been an especially tough year for everyone,” Dunlop Builder office manager Jess Nuttridge said.

“Biking is a great way to stay physically fit, but it’s also about how it makes you feel - as soon as you’re on the bike and with your mates you feel great.”

Dunlop Builders places a strong emphasis on physical and mental wellbeing. Our team works really hard, so for us this event is a great opportunity to build team morale and remind each other that health plays a big part in job performance and satisfaction.”

Bike Wanaka event organiser Toby Roberts said the Tradies Challenge is “impossible not to enjoy”.

“[It’s] a really cool part of the event – it’s great for team building, score settling, and in the lead up to the event there’s so much social riding and banter.”

As with previous years, Bike Wanaka is offering 20 per cent off entry fees for ‘earlybirds’ who sign up before August 31.

“We’re encouraging people to get involved early. Having this event to look forward to is a great way to find focus, get out of the slumber of winter, and get back on the road to fitness,” Toby said.

“With everything that’s gone on with COVID-19, we feel so lucky to be able to race together, and this year more than ever the event feels like a really important and positive event for the community.”

Sign up for the Dean’s Bank 10 hour bike race (Sunday October 25) here. To enter the Tradies Challenge, email your company and team name to [email protected].

PHOTO: Supplied