More than 10,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities challenged themselves today in Australia’s biggest bike ride, Around the Bay – Ride for a Child in Need. Circumnavigating Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay on rides ranging from 20 to 250 kilometres, the cyclists enjoyed lovely sunshine and perfect 24-degree temperatures on the 23rd running of this annual fitness event by Bicycle Network.
The first waves of riders on the longest distances departed in the 5.30am darkness but social media was awake early for a busy day covering the event.
Spotted an #AroundtheBay legend at the start. Today is Phil’s 23rd Around the Bay ride. Good luck! pic.twitter.com/By0m6Ijpgd
— Bicycle Network (@bicycle_network) October 10, 2015
Review the day via Twitter feed, Facebook and Flickr.
Riders were a little bit faster than usual this year due to favourable winds and excellent riding conditions.
The first riders began arriving at the Alexandra Gardens finish site at midday, celebrating with mates at the finish line and proudly accepting their medal.
In the festival atmosphere of the finish site, as riders relaxed on the lawn refueling and recapping the day, Ride On asked a few finishers how the day went for them.
Around the Bay riders are encouraged as individuals, teams and schools to raise funds for the event’s official charity partner, The Smith Family. This year, Around the Bay aims to fundraise more than $1.2 million, which will help provide a year of schooling for 2,100 disadvantaged Australian children. Fundraising continues after the event, allowing friends and supporters of riders to donate to celebrate their achievement. Donate here.
Bicycle Network’s General Manager of Events Darren Allen said it was easy to see why Around the Bay – Ride for a Child in Need had become one of the most popular events in Australia.
“Around the Bay has inspired tens of thousands of people to take up bike riding to improve their health and fitness—as well as building a strong community of riders across Australia.
“This year, riders enjoyed beautiful conditions and got around the course faster than usual. It was a good day to be out of the bike.
“With six ride distances to choose from and supporting a fantastic cause in The Smith Family, Around the Bay should be on every bike rider’s yearly calendar—no matter what your cycling ability,” Mr Allen added.
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