A cloudy morning turned into a perfect sunny afternoon as 3,800 riders and more than 300 volunteers and staff arrived at their first campsite in Albury, NSW, for the 31st RACV Great Victorian Bike Ride.
Tomorrow we cross the Victorian border and begin our 520km journey through the High Country, stopping along the way at Yackandandah, Bright, Moyhu, Mansfield, Alexandra and Healesville before finishing our journey at Lilydale.
But today, riders are taking the time to set up their tents, check their bikes and relax. Albury has spoilt us with a beautiful, lush campsite at Hovell Tree Park on the bank of the Murray River—a perfect place to unwind before the big days of riding ahead. While some cool off in the river, others are busy exploring the campsite’s bustling Main Street or seeking out a shady spot to read and doze.
Tomorrow the real excitement begins and riders will be up bright and early for their first day in the saddle. We’re starting with a relatively short, 67km ride to Yackandandah. However, it’s set to be another warm day with a top of 31ºC and the possibility of a thunderstorm, so riders will need to make sure they apply their sunscreen and have their wet weather gear on hand.
You can see more pictures from Day 1 on Flickr.
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