Tribute to Geoff Lankow

Geoff Lankow, the man behind the Martinborough Fun Ride which raised over $150,000 for the community, passed away in early January, aged 85.

The Fun Ride peaked at 900 riders under Geoff’s 23-year reign, timed for riders training for the Lake Taupo Challenge. Funds supported the Martinborough Volunteer Fire Brigade and South Wairarapa Order of St John, and on retiring from the event Geoff and Jan received a Rotary Community Service Award for their initiative.

Geoff and Jan Lankow moved to Martinborough in 2000.  Practical and very fit, Geoff worked with  the builder to construct their house.  

Wanting to go further, Geoff studied at night while working on-site by day, and qualified as a Licenced Building Practitioner.  His solid work and practical suggestions built loyal Martinborough customers.

As one customer smiled, “nothing Geoff built was ever going to fall down. Our woodshed doubles as an earthquake shelter”. 

A naturally talented sportsman, he won Championship titles for spearfishing and road cycling, and tennis and cycling medals at the Masters Games.

 Geoff’s idea of a good training ride was from his hometown Whanganui to Raetihi, and back over the Parapara hills most weekends.  “I put miles into my legs, just as Arthur Lydiard did with runners like Snell and Halberg. I wasn’t the fastest rider, but knew if others were struggling on a climb, I had the legs to beat them,” he explained.

Described as a “tough rider”, he won the six-day Auckland-Wellington classic twice. Colleagues said some of his road race times are still unbeaten.   A news report at the time said “Physically, Lankow is a perfect cyclist. He is probably one of the best solo cyclists this country has ever produced.”  

A memorial service was held in the Grand Marquee at Tirohana Estate, his favourite local winery restaurant. 

Photo caption. Geoff was always happy when anticipating a ride