He told NZME this week he was walking just three days after the incident, and by Boxing Day, he was back on his bike for some “easy, gentle rides” to get the blood flowing.
He said his ribs were still sore and he could not sleep easily at night, but his arm was healing nicely and his stitches had been removed.
“Things are progressing pretty well simply because I am young and fit.”
Penberthy said he had been road cycling for 45 years and the injury happened during his 12th time on the Taupō Enduro track.
He said he would not be competing for another few months but he had been cycling on Pāpāmoa, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga Harbour, Whanganui and Taupō cycleways to rebuild his strength.
Pāpāmoa cyclist Tod Penberthy returned to his bike on Boxing Day after being hit by a vehicle during the Taupō Enduro race in November. Photo / Supplied
Penberthy said that for many people his age, this accident would have forced them to give up cycling, but he refused to accept that fate.
“The plan for the future is to live to 101,” he said.
“I’m feeling confident. I’ll be back on the road, no problem at all, and I won’t worry about cars or trucks.
“I’m happy and healthy and back on my bike.”
A police spokesman said a 28-year-old woman was due to appear in the Taupō District Court on January 14, charged with careless driving.
Ayla Yeoman is a journalist based in Tauranga. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Communications and Politics & International Relations from the University of Auckland, and has been a journalist since 2022.