Kiwi cyclist Aaron Gate is parting ways with his trademark mullet, but it's all in the name of a good cause.
A star on both track and road, Gate's flowing locks became synonymous with his podium-topping efforts at this year's Birmingham Commonwealth Games, where he became the first New Zealander to win four gold medals at a single Games.
The Aucklander won three gold medals as part of New Zealand's all-conquering track campaign, before leaving the velodrome and adding another in the 160km road race.
But the 31-year-old has decided the time is right to farewell his iconic mullet to raise funds for men's health as part of the Movember campaign.
"I've done Movember a few times before and I'm a big fan of the incredible job they do raising awareness for prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men's mental health and suicide prevention," said Gate, who also boasts a bronze medal from the 2012 London Olympics.
"Usually I do the traditional mo grow but this year I wanted to mix it up a bit, and with the mullet getting a good bit of profile in Birmingham, I thought it might get a few people interested in donating."
Gate admitted he'd be sad to see the mullet go and hopes its absence won't have any adverse effect on his aerodynamics on the track.
"I've gotten used to it and my wife actually really likes it as well," he said.
"I've had a few people tell me the mullet must be my lucky charm but I can always bring it back if need be."
Gate will also be donating one of his signed Birmingham 2022 NZ team t-shirts to the person with the largest single donation.
He plans to shave the mullet at the end of the month, with New Zealanders able to contribute to his campaign here.
