OLIVIA SIVA
Queensland cyclists are gearing up for the 15th annual Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenge, which will see 5000 riders peddling their way from St Lucia to Southport on Sunday September 15.
The annual 100km event, which is presented by Bicycle Queensland, has a new start line line this year, at the Eleanor Schonell Bridge at the University of Queensland in Brisbane.
Bicycle Queensland’s event manager, Joel Stephens, said he was anticipating an electrifying atmosphere at the event.
“We can’t wait to see 5000 bikes and riders on the bridge this year getting ready to roll out for their 100km challenge,” Mr Stephens said.
“We think the atmosphere and vibe on the bridge will be electric, if not a little chilly at 5am.”
Mr Stephens said the 100km event was a great challenge for both amateur and experience riders, making it a popular event on the local cycling calendar.
“I think the sense of achievement people get from riding not only 100km, but from Brisbane to the Gold Coast, is what makes this event so special,” Mr Stephens said.
“Two great cities in South East Queensland linked together by 5000 cyclists one Sunday a year,” he said.
Cyclist Paranee Sivapathasundaram, who will be doing the Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenge for the fourth time this year, said the event was the one he most looked forward to participating in each year.
“The Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenge is such a rewarding event,” Dr Sivapathasundaram said.
“It is challenging yet fun and achievable for all, and is a great event for any rider wanting to take part in a great community activity,” he said.
Mr Stephens said the event was great for riders of all skill levels.
“The ride is relatively flat and achievable to anyone with a general level of fitness,” he said.
New rider and Gold Coast local Sarah Wilkinson is planning to complete the race for the first time this year after taking up road cycling a few months ago.
“I’m really excited for the challenge the Brisbane to Gold Coast ride will be,” Ms Wilkinson said.
“From what I’ve heard, this event is a great introduction to the riding scene,” she said.
“I’m sure it will be hard, but I think it will be a great fitness achievement.”
Ms Wilkinson said her decision to continue to participate in the race despite a near miss when she was knocked from her bike by a truck while training a few weeks ago, was one that made her participation in this year’s B2GC Cycle Challenge even more meaningful.
“I don’t want to let a minor mishap get the better of me,” she said.
“I think I would feel very disappointed with myself if I didn’t complete this challenge.”
“Bring on the Brisbane to Gold Coast!”
Mr Stephens said he encouraged riders both new and old to stay vigilant in training in the final weeks prior to the event.
“Keep up the training, have a nutrition plan, and make sure your bike is ready for the challenge,” Mr Stephens said.
To find out more about the 15th annual Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle Challenge, or to register for the event, visit their website.