If you’re in New Zealand (and we’ll admit that it’s possibly a little late to make plans if you’re not) this weekend, then you’ll be wanting to head to Whakarewarewa Forest for the 2009 Pig and Whistle Singlespeed Championship, on 21 April.

2008 men’s champion Garth Weinberg and women’s champ, Annika Smail, both from Rotorua, will be in attendance and hoping to defend their crowns.

While it will be serious business out front, most riders are in the event to have fun, say the organisers. “Racing a single-geared mountain bike is hard, but there is plenty of socialising to soothe the pain, as well, with a three day mini-festival around the race.”

Friday evening will host a movie night, and there’ll be a big after-match party on Saturday and a Kiwi breakfast on Sunday, all at the Pig & Whistle. There’ll also be a trade village outside the pub from 10am on Saturday morning – bringing the event into town.

Up for grabs is a big spot prize for the best costume and/or pimped out bike. At last year’s world champs in California, the champion was top USA pro rider, Carl ‘The Deckerator’ Decker. Carl raced in a black Borat-style man-kini, Zorro mask and a flowing cape.

Find out more at www.nzsinglespeeds.com