It all started with five cyclists and a living room in 1970. Kevin McComb hosted the first meeting of the Kawerau Wheelers, joined by Mati Matitch as the only other active racer. Within weeks, the ranks grew to a dozen, and Kawerau riders began turning heads on the national stage.

🥇 Champions in the Making
Kevin himself represented New Zealand at the 1978 Commonwealth Games in Edmonton, competing in the men’s sprint.

Eric McKenzie began cycling under Kevin’s guidance and quickly rose to international fame:

• Winner of the 1979 Tour of Southland
• Rode four editions of the Tour de France (1982–1985)
• Notable finishes: 5th in two stages in 1982, 3rd and 4th in 1983

🔄 Growth, Transition and Evolution
By 1985, Kawerau’s population had declined, and Kevin relocated to Whakatane to take over the Whakatane Cycle Centre. Soon after, he merged the Kawerau Wheelers with the once-thriving Whakatane Cycling Club, forming the Eastern Bay Cycling Club.
This new club kept the wheels turning:

• Regular racing produced a steady stream of national-level and professional riders
• The rise of multisports and triathlons brought fresh talent to the scene
• Sunday 8am bunch rides became a tradition, drawing up to 20 riders weekly for three decades.

💫 Today
The club has proudly reclaimed its original name: the Whakatane Cycling Club.
Competitive spirit and camaraderie remain strong, welcoming riders of all levels. And from this dedicated peloton, elite cyclists continue to emerge.