"Around the Bay" and changing lives
Hands up if you love nothing more than heading off to a cycling event. The chance to rub shoulders with cycling elite, see mates you haven’t seen since your last event and talks bikes with people that actually listen. Not to mention adding to your jersey collection. Just an all round great day.
One of the greatest rides in Victoria is the Around the Bay. Since 1993 this bike ride has supported The Smith Family in raising funds (over $300,000 to date) to help children in need, break the cycle of disadvantage through education.
Your ride options are almost unlimited. You could bring the baby seat and tackle the 20 km family ride, starting at Albert Park and heading alone the iconic and beautiful beach road. Plenty of cafes to stop for a sneaky latte or stretch your legs at one of many parks or beaches. A great day out on the bike.
If you’re really up for a challenge you can take on the 300km BIG ONE. This ride is literally around the bay. Also starting at Albert park along with the riders looking for a good time, you serious folk will head towards Queenscliff where you will catch the ferry to Sorrento. Yep that’s right, boat ride included.
Riding through the amazing Mornington peninsula you will head to Arthurs seat where you will be welcomed with a 6% climb and a guaranteed burn. You will be rewarded with views of the bay and have enough time to catch your breath before a well-deserved descent. Then with around 75km to go is where you will start your climb up red hill. With an average gradient of 3.4%, at this stage of the ride it will feel worse than it is. As you start second guessing your decision to take this ride on, you will hit the iconic beach road as you head back to your starting point of Albert Park.
Always looking out for the newbies here at Casualblack, we have a couple of tips to keep in mind if your starting out and attending your first cycling event.
- Pick your ride. Everyone loves a challenge but be realistic. And don’t forget this is meant to be fun.
- Train, even just a little. You will want to ride regularly and ride your elected distance at least once before the event. Ride in all types of weather so your prepared for whatever event day brings.
- Get your bike in order. Focus on the basics. Check and lube your chain, and check tyres a week out from the event. This will give you time to fix/replace anything that may be suspect.
- Be prepared. The must bring checklist – A range of clothing (have all weather conditions covered) / tyre pump / spare tubes (at least one) / food and water / bike multi tool. It’s also a good idea to leave a change of clothes in the car for after the event along with spare socks / towel etc
- On the day. Double check you pack list (definitely don’t forget your bike). Arrive early so you’re not rushed.
- Have fun. Don’t forget why your there. Enjoy yourself.
Will see you at the start line
Happy riding