HA NOI (VNS)– Famous New Zealand BMX cyclist Sarah Walker arrived in the Vietnamese capital Ha Noi yesterday to embark on a cycling tour of the country.

Walker, who won a silver medal at the London 2012 Olympics, will lead a group of 18 New Zealand cyclists who will make a 350km trip taking in tourist destinations while exploring Viet Nam's vibrant culture.

Walker said she was really looking forward to the trip in which she would start by meeting local people in Ha Noi through visits to an orphanage and a school.

"This is a great initiative. It's fantastic to have an ever increasing number of kiwis coming to Viet Nam to understand this wonderful country," said New Zealand Ambassador to Viet Nam, Haike Manning.

"Not only that, but during their cycle trip the group will be raising money for charity which will help disadvantaged Kiwi kids." – VNS