written by Michael Scott

Cadel Evan’s, Phil Anderson, Rochelle Gilmore, Stephen Hodge and Tracey Gaudry……….not a bad line up to kick start a week of riding around NSW to bring greater awareness to creating a safer bike riding environment in Australia!

On Wednesday morning 35 cycling fanatics (an eccelectic bunch) cruised down to the Harbour Bridge to launch the beginning of the ‘Share The Road Tour’. We were greeted by the Amy Gillett Foundation’s important corporate partners (Honda & Continental) and Government officials that have more than a passing interest in reducing the incidence of deaths/injuries on the road. As well, a media contingent attended and had the pleasure of speaking with Cadel & Phil A about the importance of simply respecting bicyclists as a bona fide road user.

And then we took off on our 168km journey……..

40km of riding out through the metropolitan precinct reminded me of why I had given up riding during our 4 years of living in Sydney. Navigating the pot-holes and ‘cracks’ in the roads was challenging – and the proximity of cars, trucks and other motor vehicles did nothing but highlight how spoilt I am to enjoy frequent trips along the Great Ocean Road and surrounding countryside at home.

The day was a tough ride with each of the defined groups splitting up across the day, particularly on the ascent of several climbs. Rhys Gillett, James M, Carla and Rach Neylan performed like ‘Billy Goats’ in the high country and the rest of us slowly made the grind up the continuous round of undulations to our first evening in an eco-hotel.

Unfortunately my day ended in less than spectacular circumstances with reoccurring double cramps in both legs approximately 25km from home. Someone suggested that I may not have done enough training, while another talked about it being the result of an ‘all nighter’ 24 hours earlier………I think that we need to examine both of these possibilities at some point.

Special mention must go to Felicity D, Ned, Dima, Matt P and Lindy who spent plenty of time in the ‘hurt box’ during the day and finished off the ride with a smile and nod – and no doubt a great deal of personal satisfaction.

‘Two Up’ is the title of an evening activity introduced by Hodgey (another of our world class companions) who introduces and interviews interesting personalities. Our first ‘Two Up’ was with the exceptionally talented Katie Brown – an elite cyclist that has transitioned out of high performance sport and into motherhood. Katie spoke sincerely about the challenges of the transition from elite sport to everyday life, self identity, drugs and parenting………it was a highly interesting discussion that left me contemplating the thousands of athletes that at a point in time were the Nations ‘sporting darlings’ – and are now struggling with the reality of life post the hyperbole of elite sport.

Day Two began with a collection of magnesium, 2 litres of water, powerade, aspirin and several other concoctions that were designed to avoid the possibility of further cramping. A short trundle to loosen up the pins was also part of the routine to prepare for 170km of riding on Day Two. It can be said that the sight of David M returning from a morning jog (while everyone else was limping around) was nothing less than inspirational. I guess excellence in life doesn’t happen by accident and here is a gentleman that exudes focus and dedication to everything that he does.

The ride for the day was excellent with a nice easy pace set by our Chairman ‘Muzza’ throughout the day. Lunch was at the base of a small climb – and it is entirely possible that we all consumed far too much quiche, pasta salad and berry crumble with ice cream…….but that’s why we ride isn’t it?

Dinner was at a lovely little restaurant next to the hotel and Rochelle G was our ‘Two Up’ guest. Its fair to say that she is a woman on a mission – not only has she represented Australia in three sports and won a commonwealth games gold medal, she is also and the major shareholder of the professional team that she rides for……not bad for 28 years of age. A key topic of conversation centered around the lack of support for women’s cycling………I am guessing that the situation is very similar across most sports globally.

Day Three didn’t really get started today due to some work commitments – and the plan to ride from lunchtime didn’t quite occur due to the appeal of a full day of recovery.

Some random observations and thoughts…….

- Simon is a masochist.
- Felecity D is as tough as nails.
- Lindy’s preparation included some spin classes and rides to Mordy………and she is flying. Amazing.
- Rachel K is an awesome energy who just keeps smiling and giving.
- Phil let’s his legs do the talking.
- Tony Gaudry is really 45 years old, he is pulling the wool over our eyes.

Tags: Carla Ryan, Michael Scott, Phil Anderson, Rachel Neylan, Rhys Gillett, Rochelle Gilmore, Tony Gaudry

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 11th, 2010 at 8:08 pm and is filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.