Mark your calendars folks, because the original Karioi Classic is back! After a 4-year hiatus, we are ready again to welcome hard-core gravel grinders to Whāingaroa Raglan.
The OG’s lead organising team, Dirk De Ruysscher from the Cyclery Raglan, Lisa Thomson and supporting crew have decided to host the Classic again. This year the event is partnering with the Whāingaroa Raglan Destination Management Organisation (WRDMO).
Dirk De Ruysscher says, “we are excited to have the Karioi Classic return – Karioi Classic in 2021 reached full registrations so we are recommending everyone who is keen to enter to get in and register so that you don’t miss out for 2025.”
This year there will be two race options to choose from: The “short” 58km or the “long” 85km option. Both distances require a reasonable level of fitness”
Charlie Young, WRDMO Chair says “the Karioi Classic is an iconic Raglan event that aligns with the WRDMO core values to increase visitor numbers during the off-peak season and at the same time, create and support additional businesses and employment within the community. This event is zero waste and plastic free and is a leading example of responsible and sustainable tourism; we are stoked to be able to support this event”.
The Karioi Classic 2025 event is proudly supported with a new major sponsor, Rangitahi. This additional funding support will enable the Karioi Classic to be strengthened and to continue to grow on the success that the Karioi Classic team have previously established since its inception in 2009. This year, the course also runs through Rangitahi Peninsula as part of the neutral zone of the race for the first 3 kms.
Sam Laity, Rangitahi General Manager says “It’s awesome to support the Karioi Classic to enable cyclists to compete in an event that has incredible coastline scenery with stunning views around Karioi. We look forward to watching all the riders begin their race via Rangitahi Peninsula”
Each month leading up to the event, there will be a chance to be in the draw to win some awesome prizes. Supporting Karioi Classic for March is the Raglan Holiday Park Papahua who are offering two nights’ accommodation for two people in one of their Tourist Flat cabins valued at $360 (booking subject to availability at any time). To be in to win, register in March and go into the draw. Winners will be announced in April.
So, if you have a gravel bike, cyclo cross, mountain bike or anything in between and are keen to set yourself a challenge for the year, sign up now on our website and keep in the loop on socials @KarioiClassic
Date: Sunday 27th July
Distances: 57km and 85km
Registration open now www.goraglan.com/events/karioi-classic-2025
Sorry, no E-bikes allowed.
Principal Sponsor: Rangitahi
Supporting Sponsors: Cyclery Raglan, Webpaste and Mark Frost Bayleys Raglan
Monthly Business Sponsors: Raglan Holiday Park Papahua
For further information contact Event Co-ordinator Jacqueline Anderson jacqueline@raglanihub.nz
