A good day for a ride...
19 January 2007
by Jeff Kasparian
As it turned out, it was a good day for many who rode in the 2007 Mutual Community Challenge Tour. Despite rain for much of the day, thousands of amateur riders were treated to a course that incorporated a good amount of downhill, the temperature was pleasant, and the moderate winds from the north did much to push riders along the substantially south-heading course. Those who took part last year will know that this course was a little easier, shorter and it was a very welcome change from the 40+ degree temperatures!
This was a ride that covered Stage 3 of the Tour Down Under, with riders having the option to either complete the full 128 km course from Stirling to Victor Harbor, or start at Ashbourne and do the final 84 km. It was not without it hilly parts, with Kerby Hill outside of Pt Elliot slowing most more than they would prefer.
After getting to the start at around 5:45am, over an hour before the start at Stirling, it was a truly magnificent sight looking down the main street to a sea of green jerseys when lining up ready to set off at 7:00am. It was a shame to commence the ride in drizzling rain (which continued for well over 2 hours), but after a relatively short period of time I was completely soaked, and with a pleasant temperature, this was not really a problem. The stops along the way were very good, with plenty of fluids, food (reincorporating bananas!!) and volunteers to help. BikeSA are to be congratulated.
It was fantastic to see work colleagues and friends along the way, as well as the fabulous crowd who lined the streets to cheer this is truly a great event. It was a very pleasant downhill for the last 5 km of the event into Victor, and a feeling of accomplishment with the crowd clapping as arms were raised with the finishing arch in sight. It was great again that we had a small area marked out by distinctive UniSA umbrellas where staff could gather, greeted by friendly UniSA staff ready with a cold drink all ready for us to tell tales of the ride just conquered.
Overall UniSA had approaching 50 staff and significant others who completed the event. Speaking to several riders after the event, times were quicker than most thought they would do. The best being a ride of less than 3 hours 20 minutes for the 128 km course well done Brian P!! Perhaps most pleasing is seeing those who have trained and completed such an endurance event for the first time for them particularly the day is special.
It was definitely a good day for a ride