There’s just one sleep to go before Australia’s toughest one day cycling event: Peaks Challenge Falls Creek. The 235km course takes riders through Victoria’s spectacular alpine region and over the top of three epic climbs: Tawonga Gap, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek. With over 4,000 metres of vertical climbing and a 13 hour deadline, even the most seasoned riders will be hurting when they cross the finish line.
Today the event village has been a vibrant hub of activity as riders sign in, have their bikes checked by the friendly Bicycle SuperSuperstore mechanics, get a massage from the Australian Physiotherapy Association and take a final spin to familiarise themselves with the course ahead of the ride tomorrow. They’re also stocking up on Hydralyte and Winners Bars to help them conquer the mountains.
What can riders expect tomorrow? It’s looking to be a frosty start with a minimum of 6°C, before warming to a maximum of 17°C with clear skies and 14–20km/h northwesterly winds. While the temperature may not be high, the sun will be out and sunnies and sunscreen are a must.
For all the first time riders, Lantern Rouge Liz Joiner also has some words of advice: “Look after each other and yourselves. Eat before you’re hungry and drink before you’re thirsty,” she said. “It’s a great day out on the bike, so have fun with it!.”
In addition to the information in the ride guide, Event Manager Rebecca Lane has some final route notes for riders:
- We have 115km of closed roads. However, there will be some vehicles in these sections and all road rules still apply.
- Conditions may be smoky due to controlled burns in the area. Please turn on your lights if visibility is low.
- The Falls Creek descent has some slightly off camber corners. There is also a section of gravel 14km down. Please take care.
- The Tawonga Gap descent is especially challenging. Ride within your ability and take particular care on corners four and seven.
- It may be foggy at the top of Mount Hotham. Please turn on your lights if visibility is low.
- There is some gravel spillage from driveways 6km and 14km past Omeo. Be careful of punctures and slipping.
- There is a temporary bike lane on Bingo Munji bridge. Please ride single file, take it slow and follow directions from route marshals. You may need to dismount.
- At Anglers Rest you must dismount to cross the bridge.
- On the final climb (back of Falls Creek) some branches came down on the road in the lead up to the event. These have been cleared, but more may fall.
- With more than 60% of riders tackling the event for the first time, please be aware of your surroundings on open roads and look out for each other.
You can follow live ride updates on Twitter: #Peaks15 and view photos from the event on Flickr. Good luck, and we’ll see you at the finish line!
For riders who make it over the finish line and still want more, and for those who missed out on joining us at Falls Creek this year, there’s still two more chances to prove yourself in 2015 when Peaks Challenge becomes a series with Peaks Challenge Gold Coast and Peaks Challenge Cradle Mountain.
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