All posts by Daniel Harvey

Ride Routes 2nd – 8th July

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TOMR 2022 (SPR Edition) is going to be huge. The course has been released — 5 stages over 3 days — and with no point-to-point. Bring it on.

Also released — the SPR contingent is providing more opportunities than ever to pin on a number and ride the Tour, including mixed teams for the first time — 2 mixed teams, 4 women’s and 9 men’s.

SPR National Kit — If you have qualified for Gran Fondo or Gravel Worlds, or if you just want to rep your club on an international stage you’ll want to be getting the new SPR Australian kit!

Kit shop will be open for national kit only until 3 July. Get in quick!

SPRockets Answers for Cancer Team — I want to do a shoutout to Bree Mitchell, Faye Dalglish-Jones and Greg Jones, who have been working hard fundraising for their participation in the 2022 Cancer ride later this year. And kudos for the most excellent fundraising evening they put together recently.

For me, it is always worth hearing the stories that motivate people in our community to work for the betterment of our society. For Bree, it is a family connection, for Faye and Greg it is just as personal if not a little closer to home. Those of you that have been around the SPR community for a little while will know that many of us, myself included, have our own stories telling of lives interrupted by cancer. There is so much that our doctors know about curing and preventing cancer, but there is more needed for it to be truly beaten.

There are a few ways you contribute to Bree, Faye and Greg’s efforts this year – directly or by purchasing a jersey.

For those curious to take a walk down memory lane, this is not the first time SPR has rallied around members riding to cure cancer — remember this Liam, Sam & Brooke? 😎

The Tour de France is arguably the most famous epic road race so come along to celebrate the event in style at Chez Pierre Nedlands on Tuesday 5 July.

This event has always been an excellent night, with Chez Pierre always putting on amazing food. It is after all something for which the French are renowned.

Despite my (clearly unnecessary!) warnings about missing out, we still have a few tickets available, so if you are interested take a look. Get your tickets here.

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. PDCC Peel 24 Hour — not this weekend, but get your entries in!

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Last week we had the Winter Solstice, which means from here on it gets lighter each morning. But it’s still pretty dark, so remember your front and back lights for early morning rides, and long commutes to the start of the 7am rides — make sure they’re working and batteries are charged. When it’s dark, and you’re riding in a group, a flashing rear light can be distracting for the rider behind you, so switch to a constant setting if you can.

Despite it being mid-winter, we’ve got fine weather again this weekend and the main groups on Saturday can celebrate with a gentle climb up and over Ridge Hill Road.

See you there.

Saturday 2nd July

Sunday 3rd July

Monday 4th July

Tuesday 5th July

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 6th July

Thursday 7th July

Friday 8th July

Ride Routes 25th June – 1st July

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Let me start with an apology. You will recall that after our AGM earlier this year, we had not filled all of the Committee positions, and in particular we were looking for someone to take on the role of Women’s Interests. Some weeks ago now, Amy Currie agreed to take on the role, but with lots coming up in the blog each week, I kept delaying in search of clear air… and ending up forgetting to make the announcement. Sorry!

Welcome to the team Amy!

Let me introduce Amy. As you may have guessed from the photos above, not only has Amy been focussing her efforts on gravel recently, but she produced quite the result at SEVEN this year — 3rd place in her age group, 40th female and qualification for the UCI Gravel World Championships! Amy also finds a plenty of time to ride a shiny new road bike. When not riding, Amy works as a Business Analyst in local government.

I would also take the opportunity to welcome the Women’s Interests Subcommittee for 2022:

  1. Michelle Bonner
  2. Mandy Coles
  3. Belinda Evans
  4. Meegan Fyfield
  5. Anita Young

SPR is what it is as a result of our volunteers and their contributions. Thank you.

The Tour de France is arguably the most famous epic road race so come along to celebrate the event in style at Chez Pierre Nedlands on Tuesday 5 July.

This event has always been an excellent night, with Chez Pierre always putting on amazing food. It is after all something for which the French are renowned.

We still have tickets available, so if you are interested take a look. Get your tickets here.

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. PDCC Winter Road Racing Series #3 – Doghill

2. WCMCC Herne Hill Graded Scratch Road Race

From the Ride Coordinator — Well done to those that took to the roads last weekend — I was reminded a few times that “it’s only water!” It looks like SPR’s Zwift rides had a couple more takers than the real ones last Saturday.

For those interested, we’ll carry on with Zwift club rides when the weather isn’t great and post links here. You’ll need to join the SPR Zwift Club to do the rides; follow the link  here.

Remember to do some basic maintenance after wet weather riding – check your tyres and braking surfaces, clean & lube your drive train and enjoy the good riding weather this weekend!

Saturday 25th June

Sunday 26th June

Monday 27th June

Tuesday 28th June

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 29th June

Thursday 30th June

Friday 1st July

Ride Routes 18th – 24th June

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The Tour de France is arguably the most famous epic road race so come along to celebrate the event in style at Chez Pierre Nedlands on Tuesday 5 July.

This event has always been an excellent night, with Chez Pierre always putting on amazing food. It is after all something for which the French are renowned.

Tickets are (extremely) limited so don’t wait.

Get your tickets here.

Last week we launched the club’s participation in the Tour of Margaret River for 2022, and called for Expressions of Interest from riders and/or volunteers who are considering joining an SPR team for this year’s event.

The event runs in November so there is plenty of time for preparation, and SPR has lots of support for riders, no matter what your goals.

We would like to receive responses no later than Sunday 19 June (this weekend) to help our planning.

You can read our mail-out here, and follow the link to Expression of Interest form from there.

Get involved! If you are interested, please respond.

 

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. [CANCELLED] WCMCC Mt Helena Graded Scratch Road Race

 

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Another wet weekend most likely. That means fewer riders, fewer ride leaders, and mixed groups with a wider range of capabilities than normal within the group. On the plus side, it’s an opportunity to meet and ride with new people – all with a common belief that there is no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate apparel. For those that will be Zwifting on Saturday – watch this space in coming weeks. SPR are expanding into Zwift setting up clubs and rides. Early days yet, but already SPR Chicks have made good progress.

Roadworks update: From today access to Mercantile Lane from Mounts Bay Rd will be restricted due to construction work. It affects the end of the ride on Saturday, but we’ve had this problem before – use Mill St or William St instead – as guided by ride leaders.

Saturday 18th June

Sunday 19th June

Monday 20th June

Tuesday 21st June

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 22nd June

Thursday 23rd June

Friday 24th June

Ride Routes 11th – 17th June

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SPR is pleased to formally launch the club’s participation in the Tour of Margaret River for 2022, and call for Expressions of Interest from riders and/or volunteers who are considering joining an SPR team for this year’s event.

The event runs in November so there is plenty of time for preparation, and SPR has lots of support for riders, no matter what your goals.

Most of you will have received an email the weekend just gone — though check your spam folder as we are just getting our e-mail system working again and have hard reports of emails going missing.

You can read our mail-out here, even if you did not receive the email directly 😎

It contains a link to Expression of Interest form and links to the full pack from our information session.

Get involved! If you are interested, please respond no later than Sunday 19 June.

SPR Tour de France Dinner 2022 — The Tour de France is arguably the most famous epic road race so come along to celebrate the event in style at Chez Pierre Nedlands on Tuesday 5 July 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start

Tickets are (extremely) limited so don’t wait. See if you can find the hidden cyclist in the logo.

Get your tickets here.

2022 Goldfields Cyclassic — This classic race was held over the weekend. SPR had 5 riders in the mix — well done to Olesya Alutina, Nathalie Laurendeau, Stuart Gee, Greg Bayley and Craig Denham!

SPR Race Day Hoodie — With the weather getting colder, replace your SPR tee with and SPR Hoodie. Go on.

Unisex pocket hoodie. Regular fit, pullover hood, inset sleeves, kangaroo pocket. Heavy weight, 350 GSM, 80% cotton 20% polyester anti-pill fleece. Lined hood, tonal shoestring drawcord, sleeve cuff ribbing, preshrunk to minimise shrinkage.

Unlike our normal kit orders, these items may be ordered any time and will be delivered direct to your door. Order on the Mayeur SPR shop here.

 

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. PDCC Winter Road Racing Series #2 – Casuarina

2. WCMCC Baldivis Graded Scratch Road Race

 

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Well it looks like the weatherman finally realised it’s winter, and we’re gonna have to deal with some wet roads for a little while, including most of the weekend. For those venturing beyond Zwift, remember to lower tyre pressure 10-15psi for extra grip in the rain (and a smoother ride).

To try and offset the weather, I’ve chosen the shortest Saturday route we have – Abernathy Rd, with a nice downwinder back home along Guilford Rd for both main and transitional groups on Saturday. Remember the road changes near the start as we head out East from the carpark – there’s a new left lane separated by a narrow median strip. Bigger groups are better off on the right of the strip, which only lasts about half a km.

Saturday 11th June

Sunday 12th June

Monday 13th June

Tuesday 14th June

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 15th June

Thursday 16th June

Friday 17th June

Ride Routes 4th – 10th June

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Kudos Jai Hindley — Between our social media feeds, and all of the shouting from all of you since Jai Hindley took the win in the Giro this week, this has been said plenty. Thought it bears repeating – congratulations, and serious kudos.

But let me get political for just a moment. The photo above is one of the podium’s from a State Criterium Championship held in 2012, run as a joint event by SPR and Roues Chaude Cycling Club (RCCC). The photo on the left is from our advertisement of the same, and you can still find the blog post on our website here. And the two gents in the photo are none other than the immediate past President of SPR, Peter Mah (elprez) and President (to this day) of RCCC, Daniel O’Donoghue.

And on the podium some names your will recognise, even if the faces are little harder to recognise 10 years on — Sam Welsford (now Team DSM), Jai Hindley (now Bora-Hansgrohe) and Michael Storer (now Groupama–FDJ).

One final detail — if you look at our blog post from 2012 and read the comments, you probably recognise the names of club members volunteering their time to assist with the setup and running of the race.

Why is this important you might ask? The pathways for our junior riders, the place they learn to race, the launching pad for racing nationally in Australia and then competing overseas… is right here, competing in local club racing conducted primarily by volunteers.

So if you hear me, or any of the other local club presidents, working to garner support for local racing — whether from the Federal, State or Local Governments — or our local and national sporting bodies — and whether that be support for running races or advocacy for cycling facilities such as a criterium track — you at least know one of the reasons why it is important.

Kudos Jai Hindley.

Peel Womens and Junior Tour — It was a wonderful day for racing, and our Members contested all grades A – D, and we had podiums in A Grade – 3rd Teneal Attard; B Grade WIN, 1st for our Club Secretary Sam Walker and C Grade – 3rd Alison Duffey coming back to racing.

Congratulations to our women, and thanks to PDCC for putting on the event.

  • A Grade
  • B Grade
  • C Grade

SPR Kit Order — The kit shop is open for our next order! The order closes on 6 June with expected delivery late July. Sample kit for sizing is available at R&D Speedshop in Claremont (thank you!). You have the option of pickup from R&D Speedshop or posted directly to you.

All the details about club kit here with ordering direct from Mayeur’s SPR shop.

 

SPR Race Day Hoodie — With the weather getting colder, replace your SPR tee with and SPR Hoodie. Go on.

Unisex pocket hoodie. Regular fit, pullover hood, inset sleeves, kangaroo pocket. Heavy weight, 350 GSM, 80% cotton 20% polyester anti-pill fleece. Lined hood, tonal shoestring drawcord, sleeve cuff ribbing, preshrunk to minimise shrinkage.

Unlike our normal kit orders, these items may be ordered any time and will be delivered direct to your door. Order on the Mayeur SPR shop here.

 

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. 2022 Goldfields Cyclassic – Race

 

 

From the Ride Coordinator — SPR keeps records of all crashes that happen on our scheduled rides and races. While May and June usually record the lowest number of accidents, we had a blip this May, with three crashes.

It’s a good time to reflect on what is by far our most common cause of accidents; Inattention. This usually manifests by a touch of wheels, with the rider at the back not braking in time when the bike in front slows. Riding efficiently in a peloton means you’re close to the bike in front; typically half to one meter. To do this safely, you need to ensure your following distance matches your reflexes. Riders also need to call out clearly when slowing or seeing a hazard. Most people do this most of the time, but there’s always room for improvement. Let’s try and focus on this in the weeks ahead so that it becomes a habit for all.

Monday Public Holiday ride is the new NORTH option, worth checking out the map if you’re not familiar with the route.

Saturday 4th June

Sunday 5th June

Monday 6th June

Tuesday 7th June

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 8th June

Thursday 9th June

Friday 10th June

Ride Routes 21st – 27th May

SPR would like to recognise the value and importance of its volunteers, especially as this week is National Volunteer Week.

To acknowledge the valuable contribution of the skills, knowledge, time and care to nurture and develop our wonderful club, we would like to present our volunteers with a thank you gift after the ride this Saturday.

All you have to do is find our Treasurer at the Dome and she will shout you a coffee.

If you don’t know who our Treasurer is, then put on your detective hat and investigate until you find her 😎. That’s committee and sub-committee members, ride leaders and event volunteers. You know who you are. If we don’t have volunteers, we don’t have a club. A great big thank you.

Take a bow each and every one of you.

SPR Tour of Margaret River Info Night — Yesterday we held our TOMR 2022 information night, and had just over 40 people in attendance — with half of those not having ridden the Tour before.

Thank you to everyone who participated, and particularly those that presented or shared their experiences – Steve Burns, Carol Dowse, Nicki du Plessis, David Menarry and Tom Goerke. And thank you to Adrian from Melody Wheels for kindly offering his premises for the event. Kudos one and all.

Keep your eyes out for more details and the chance to sign up in the very near future.

 

So it turns out SEVEN was a huge weekend — for everyone that participated, for those that made it onto the podium, for Brendon, Rebecca & team who ran another spectacular event and especially to the many SPR members who donned the green and hit the gravel.

I will apologise in advance for anyone I’ve missed, but am sending out SPR congratulations to our members that made it onto the podium on the weekend.

Congratulations Teneal Attard, Michael Bonner, Stef van Amerongen, Rhianna Farrell, Amy Currie, Vanessa Johnson, Adelia Neethling and Darren Wallis. 💚💪🏻💚

 

Peel Womens and Junior Tour — Calling our SPR Chicks and Juniors, have you seen this exciting upcoming Event from Peel District Cycling Club?

Aimed at novice/intermediate racers this is a 3 discipline Event — with an ITT, Criterium and Road Race down at the Kwinana Motorplex Sunday 29 May.

Entry is $35 (with $5 transponder hire) with Grades from A – D. An AusCycling “Race – All Disciplines” license is required but 4-week free trial licenses are accepted.

Interested? Entry via the Facebook event or direct via Entryboss https://entryboss.cc/races/11021.

SPR Kit Order — The kit shop is open for our next order! The order closes on 6 June with expected delivery late July. Sample kit for sizing is available at R&D Speedshop in Claremont (thank you!). You have the option of pickup from R&D Speedshop or posted directly to you.

All the details about club kit here with ordering direct from Mayeur’s SPR shop.

 

SPR Race Day Hoodie — With the weather getting colder, replace your SPR tee with and SPR Hoodie. Go on.

Unisex pocket hoodie. Regular fit, pullover hood, inset sleeves, kangaroo pocket. Heavy weight, 350 GSM, 80% cotton 20% polyester anti-pill fleece. Lined hood, tonal shoestring drawcord, sleeve cuff ribbing, preshrunk to minimise shrinkage.

Unlike our normal kit orders, these items may be ordered any time and will be delivered direct to your door. Order on the Mayeur SPR shop here.

 

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. WCMCC Chidlow B Graded Scratch Road Race

2. PDCC Winter Road Racing Series #1 – Doghill

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Once again the weather plays ball, and Saturday looks to be great conditions after a damp week. With the Seven Gravel Race now behind us, this weekend should see more members riding, and more others cyclists out there too. Remember to keep a safe distance between groups should they come together at traffic lights, and to listen to your ride leaders if/when your group needs to pass others on the road.

Speaking of gravel, we’d like to bring back an SPR gravel ride next Sunday (29th), after a summer break. These are a great opportunity for a safe social sojourn in a serene scenic setting. If you’ve got a mountain or gravel bike and are thinking about it, come along! More info here next week.

It’s Hale Rd Reverse this Saturday – just one gentle climb up to the foot of Gooseberry Hill, then down hill and downwind all the way home.

Saturday 21st May

Sunday 22nd May

Monday 23rd May

Tuesday 24th May

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 25th May

Thursday 26th May

Friday 27th May

Ride Routes 14 – 20th May

So the photo above is from several years back, but the pain, hard work and amazing scenery available this weekend at SEVEN is all brand new.

We wish all the best to everyone riding this weekend. SPR and friends in particular.

Go well.

SPR Tour of Margaret River Info Night — A reminder that we are holding an information night for SPR’s TOMR 2022! The Rouleurs participation was a serious highlight for 2021, and we are keen to have as much fun this year. Get involved!

Have you ever thought about participating in the Tour of Margaret River (TOMR) but unsure what it involves?

Maybe you have participated before and would like to find out more on how to prepare a training plan or find out about racing strategy, nutrition or other training options to make your 2022 event even better. Others may wish to participate as a volunteer. Find out more at the SPR Information Session Wednesday 18 May hosted by Melody Wheels in O’Connor 6.15pm – 8.30pm. Previous participants will be there to provide insights into their preparation and experience.

The “Tour” is a team race with over 100 teams of 6 participating in 2021. It is held over three days 4 – 6 November based around Nannup and designed with team time trials and individual road races. 

SPR is reaching out to those who have never thought to participate before or may be interested in competing in a well-matched mixed team. Please register for the information session via the shop for catering purposes – pizza provided.

If you are unable to attend but would like more information this can provided after the information session from Steve on race@southperthrouleurs.com.au.

SPR Ride Leaders riding to raise money for cancer research — A small group of SPR Ride Leaders are banding together this year to train, fundraise and ride to support WA cancer research for the Harry Perkins Institute by participating in the MACA Cancer200 ride in October.

Inspired by the many members who regularly participate in the Canteen ride; Bree Mitchell, Faye Dalglish-Jones and Greg Jones all have their own motivations and stories about how cancer has impacted them or their loved ones and have decided that 2022 is a year they want to make a difference. In a nod to their SPR club affiliation they have named their team for the event The SPRockets. If you feel you want to contribute to cancer research and support our ride leaders who support us every Saturday, you can visit their fundraising page at

https://www.cancer200.org.au/fundraisers/sprockets

Donations are tax deductible and go towards world class cancer research right here in WA.

Please support “Our own team” in their endeavours to help find answers for cancers.

Peel Womens and Junior Tour — Calling our SPR Chicks and Juniors, have you seen this exciting upcoming Event from Peel District Cycling Club?

Aimed at novice/intermediate racers this is a 3 discipline Event — with an ITT, Criterium and Road Race down at the Kwinana Motorplex Sunday 29 May.

Entry is $35 (with $5 transponder hire) with Grades from A – D. An AusCycling “Race – All Disciplines” license is required but 4-week free trial licenses are accepted.

Interested? Entry via the Facebook event or direct via Entryboss https://entryboss.cc/races/11021.

SPR Race Day Hoodie — With the weather getting colder, replace your SPR tee with and SPR Hoodie. Go on.

Unisex pocket hoodie. Regular fit, pullover hood, inset sleeves, kangaroo pocket. Heavy weight, 350 GSM, 80% cotton 20% polyester anti-pill fleece. Lined hood, tonal shoestring drawcord, sleeve cuff ribbing, preshrunk to minimise shrinkage.

Unlike our normal kit orders, these items may be ordered any time and will be delivered direct to your door. Order on the Mayeur SPR shop here.

 

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. WCMCC Herne Hill Graded Scratch Road Race

 

 

From the Ride Coordinator — There’s definitely a change in climate this week. Hopefully the rain holds off and we have dry weather for the rides, but please be prepared in case we don’t. Running wider tyres and dropping tyre pressure by 10-15psi add grip in wet weather, so consider this your preparation for winter rides. And take it easy on corners – especially at roundabouts where the camber is usually the wrong way. Westerly winds mean we can go back to courses we haven’t ridden for a while – main groups can enjoy the ups and downs of Scarborough Beach & Hale on Saturday.

Many including myself will be away for SeVen in Nannup this weekend – and we hope to reinstate some Sunday gravel rides in the coming months. Watch this space.

Saturday 14th May

Sunday 15th May

Monday 16th May

Tuesday 17th May

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 18th May

Thursday 19th May

Friday 20th May

Ride Routes 7th – 13th May

Announcing the Tour of Margaret River 2022! The Rouleurs participation was a serious highlight for 2021, and we are keen to have as much fun this year. Get involved!

Have you ever thought about participating in the Tour of Margaret River (TOMR) but unsure what it involves?

Maybe you have participated before and would like to find out more on how to prepare a training plan or find out about racing strategy, nutrition or other training options to make your 2022 event even better. Others may wish to participate as a volunteer. Find out more at the SPR Information Session Wednesday 18 May hosted by Melody Wheels in O’Connor 6.15pm – 8.30pm. Previous participants will be there to provide insights into their preparation and experience.

The “Tour” is a team race with over 100 teams of 6 participating in 2021. It is held over three days 4 – 6 November based around Nannup and designed with team time trials and individual road races. 

SPR is reaching out to those who have never thought to participate before or may be interested in competing in a well-matched mixed team. Please register for the information session via the shop for catering purposes – pizza provided.

If you are unable to attend but would like more information this can provided after the information session from Steve on race@southperthrouleurs.com.au.

79th Tom Lowry Memorial — The traditional opener to the WA road racing season, the 79th Tom Lowry Memorial was held in Collie last Saturday with a small but dedicated group of SPR Members heading South East to contest one of two iconic Collie Cycle Club Events.

Our Members contested Men’s A (124km), Men’s B (88km), Men’s C and Women’s B/C (62km). Steve and Mandy took the SPR Van down to show the Club’s support, meeting up with a few other riders just out of Mandurah to convoy down. We had idlyic conditions, with light winds and mild temperatures over the undulating and scenic course — starting in the Motorplex, out onto the quiet country roads and back for an exciting lap of the Motorplex to finish.

B Grade Podium

SPR’s best results came from Men’s B with Mark Claydon 2nd, brand new Club member Andrew McDowell 3rd, Tim Pesch 5th and Sam Mettam rounding out the top 10. A small but fierce group contested Men’s A with Callum Millard-Webb finishing 6th and Dan Mijat, JP Grygorcewicz and John Carnicelli all over close together just outside top 10 within a second of each other after the 124km! A tight bunch of our racing men roped in SPR Founder & past president Peter Mah to race with them in Men’s C and controlled a lot of the race finishing just off the podium with BT first over for SPR in 9th. Mandy McEvoy and our Club Secretary Sam Walker were our only two female Member riders, Mandy completing her first road race and finishing 3rd in C Grade, racing combined B/C. Jane joined us in team support, which is always appreciated. 

Our Club thanks to the Collie Cycle Club, Colllie Motorplex and Event sponsors – Premier Coal and the CFMEU, we’ll see you all for the 97th running of the iconic Collie Donnybrook and return Saturday 20th August. Save the date as this premier event always sells out! 

Enjoy the Tom Lowry photos from Patrick Boere (PB Photography) and full race results can be seen here

Volunteers needed for SEVEN — We have a relatively late notice shoutout for 2 or 3 volunteers to man a checkpoint at SEVEN on 15 May 2022. The location is the Ellis Creek Checkpoint. It’s technically the hardest climb in the race, and you can see the checkpoint for most of the climb.

If we can have some volunteers we will be sending the SPR marquee, van and flags up there to cheer the riders on (SPR in particular!). This particular checkpoint only needs to be ‘peopled’ from 9:30am to 1pm, so it may suit non-riders who will be down supporting friends / family at the event.

Please get in touch with Steve on race@southperthrouleurs.com.au.

Expressions of Interest for Training and Development Subcommittee — Earlier this year members voted to increase the size of the SPR Committee which gives us a few options to look at things that you deem important. Some of the things we constantly get feedback on is things like riding skills, safety on rides, training and preparation for events just to name a few. So with the extra bods now on the committee, we are (re) introducing a Training and Development Subcommittee to scope out the needs of the club and it’s members around these important areas.

We are seeking expressions of interest from 2-3 members to join 2-3 ride leaders for this important subcommittee. So if you a passion in this area and would like to make a contribution please send your expression of interest to development@southperthrouleurs.com.au. To give you an idea of the commitment required, it is planned that this group will meet for 90 minutes, every 6 weeks to initially scope priorities for the club in training and development.

*** Important: EOIs close next Tuesday 10th May ***

Thanks for your attention
Greg Jones

New Race Day Gear – the SPR Kit Subcommittee and Mayeur are proud to announce the SPR Race Day Hoodie and SPR Race Day Tee for your wearing pleasure.

You know you want one.

Unlike our normal kit orders, these items may be ordered any time and will be delivered direct to your door. Order on the Mayeur SPR shop here.

 

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

Not this weekend! SPR Hills ride anyone??

 

 

From the Ride Coordinator – More perfect weather this weekend – how lucky are we? Our ride leaders aim to facilitate a safe fun experience for the group, so that we can all enjoy a coffee together after the ride. Nobody wants to be left riding on their own, and sometimes this leads to pushing our luck at red lights to avoid being dropped by the group. We can help prevent this if we look out for each other. There is less temptation to shoot the light if we know the group will wait for us. If you think you won’t safely get through a light , call “STOPPING” before/while braking to warn the group. Call “SPLIT” If the group splits. Remember to pass the SPLIT message up to the front of the group ahead, who should then either pull over if there is a safe spot, or ride easy until the others are back on. Most times this is done, but given the potential consequences if we don’t, it’s worth reinforcing.

This week’s route is a relatively flat one with one small bump in the middle, and a nice downwinder along Morley drive.

Enjoy and stay safe!

Saturday 7th May

Sunday 8th May

Monday 9th May

Tuesday 10th May

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 11th May

Thursday 12th May

Friday 13th May

Ride Routes 30th April – 6th May

There are two things that I’ve been thinking about this past week, that I think speak volumes about SPR as a club, and by that I mean all of you — for what is SPR but all of us, and our bikes 😎

First, as you may have guessed, is the way we come together when bad things happen — the recent accident being a clear demonstration of what a great community looks like. (Jay and Jamie are both home and “on the mend” so to speak — quite a journey ahead, but on the journey)

Second, has been recent visits of old friends. People have lives, and for many that takes them across the country and further afield (Germany anyone?), but the seeing them when they return is just good — and the community that is SPR is part of that. Fair travels Liam, Ginny, Heiko and Louise.

Good luck to everyone travelling to Collie for Tom Lowry Memorial!

Enjoy your week,
Daniel

  • Ginny & Liam
  • Louise & Heiko

SPR Giro d’Italia Dinner — There are still a few (eight at last count) tickets left! Bring your family and friends to celebrate with SPR the Giro d’Italia at Bella Rosa on Monday 9 May 2022 6pm for 6.30pm start. We had a wonderful time at the Bella Rosa last year, and this year is sure not to disappoint!

Menu for $52 includes a two course meal, coffee and corkage (alcoholic drinks). 

Please have a read of the menu and get your tickets on the SPR shop now!

If you have any queries, please get in touch with Carol by email on comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au

Expressions of Interest for Training and Development Subcommittee — Earlier this year members voted to increase the size of the SPR Committee which gives us a few options to look at things that you deem important. Some of the things we constantly get feedback on is things like riding skills, safety on rides, training and preparation for events just to name a few. So with the extra bods now on the committee, we are (re) introducing a Training and Development Subcommittee to scope out the needs of the club and it’s members around these important areas.

We are seeking expressions of interest from 2-3 members to join 2-3 ride leaders for this important subcommittee. So if you a passion in this area and would like to make a contribution please send your expression of interest to development@southperthrouleurs.com.au. To give you an idea of the commitment required, it is planned that this group will meet for 90 minutes, every 6 weeks to initially scope priorities for the club in training and development.

Thanks for your attention
Greg Jones

 

New Race Day Gear – the SPR Kit Subcommittee and Mayeur are proud to announce the SPR Race Day Hoodie and SPR Race Day Tee for your wearing pleasure.

You know you want one.

Unlike our normal kit orders, these items may be ordered any time and will be delivered direct to your door. Order on the Mayeur SPR shop here.

 

Racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. Tom Lowry Memorial Road Race (entries closed)

2. WCMCC Kewdale Criterium

 

 

From the Ride Coordinator – After a wet week, it looks like we’re in luck again this weekend, with sunny Easterlies forecast both days, and Benara Rd to enjoy them on Saturday. To keep the rides safe for all, please help the ride leaders on the day by keeping group sizes in the 15-20 range, and make sure you match your pace to the majority of the group. Choose a faster group if you’re feeling frisky, and step back one if you’ve had a tough week. You’ll enjoy it more, and so will the group.

The standard SPR routes do get updated from time to time, so always download the latest one if you’re going to follow on your Garmin. Don’t make the embarrassing mistake I did last week, and follow a route that’s been superseded. 😬

Saturday 30th April

Sunday 1st May

Monday 2nd May

Tuesday 3rd May

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 4th May

Thursday 5th May

Friday 6th May

Ride Routes 23rd – 29th April

Bring your family and friends to celebrate with SPR the Giro d’Italia at Bella Rosa on Monday 9 May 2022 6pm for 6.30pm start. We had a wonderful time at the Bella Rosa last year, and this year is sure not to disappoint!

Menu for $52 includes a two course meal, coffee and corkage (alcoholic drinks). 

Please have a read of the menu.

Updated: Tickets available on the SPR shop now!

If you have any queries, please get in touch with Carol by email on comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au

SPR Short Hills Accident Update — Most of you will be aware that we had a serious accident on SPR Short Hills last Sunday (see earlier updates on Facebook here and here). The accident involved a head on collision of our riders with a car travelling on the wrong side of the road. Approximately 10 of our riders came down, with 3 hospitalised. Not only did it result in serious injury for several of our riders, but the accident was traumatic for everyone on the scene.

The good news — if that is the best word — is that our community and healthcare system responded quickly and our riders have received the very best of care.

Jay was airlifted by rescue helicopter to RPH. He sustained fractures to the neck, back and ribs as well as serious lacerations to his legs requiring plastic surgery and skin grafts. Jay will need to wear a brace for some weeks to allow his body to heal. SPR managed to connect with Jay again today to deliver a get-well hamper. I’m not sure about Jay, but my favourite item was the Sick Puppy Beer 😎

Jamie left the scene in an ambulance with serious lacerations to his leg and ankle. Thankfully there were no broken bones, with a small fracture to the ankle and quite deep lacerations to lower leg requiring attention from the plastic surgeon. Jamie was released from hospital yesterday but will be off the bike for quite some time. SPR again managed to connect with Jamie at his home today to deliver a get-well hamper.

Both Jay and Jamie asked me to pass on to everyone their deepest thanks for the way the SPR has offered support to each of them since the accident. And thank you from me — this type of caring and supporting response is truly one of the things I love about our club.

The final serious injury was Patrick Saccani-Williams. Patrick was treated at Emergency on Sunday but released that afternoon. He impacted his head in the collision, but he checked out OK and is very thankful that modern helmets provide good protection.

I also want to recognise the local couple who witnessed the accident, then rushed first aid supplies and blankets to the scene, and finally assisted by transporting (broken) bikes away from the scene. A number of you been in touch with me to ensure their assistance was recognised. And yes, SPR (thanks Di!) delivered flowers and a card to them earlier this week.

Finally, I would like to make a request to riders on the ride: We have details for most riders but are missing several — if you were on the ride could I please ask you to ping me an email on president@southperthrouleurs.com.au. This would be much appreciated, and will enable us to cover off several details. If anybody has any questions, please contact me directly by email.

Job Done — Huge congratulations are in order for SPR veteran Jim Flynn, who last Friday completed his epic Indian Pacific Wheel Ride adventure. 5,471 km from Fremante to the Sydney Opera House in 28 days — one week less than his base plan! Out of 16 starters he finished fifth. Only eight will finish.

My favourite quote from Jim:

“It is this human aspect of what is essentially a fairly solitary endurance event that has been the biggest surprise for me. It is this aspect of the ride that I will cherish the most and will look back with fondness for the rest of my life. It has made an amazing adventure even more extraordinary.”

Chapeau Jim!!

Enjoy some rest and recovery.

  • Starting out
  • Well wishes
  • SPR Veteran!
  • 30th anniversary on the road!
  • Are we there yet? (YES!)

 

The epic Three, Five and Se˄en is being held on Sunday 15 May in Nannup. The shorter courses, 50km (Three) and 85km (Five) are on the same gravel, clay/mud, quartz grit and mica tracks as SE˄EN and have plenty of room to pass. These distances are still challenging and designed as preparation for taking on the full SE˄EN course in future years. 

With a 10 hour cut off time for SE˄EN to cover 125km, finishing is a triumph.

If interested check out accommodation around Nannup before registering for 2022 here (official website here).

If gravel rides sounds like something you would like to get into (for 2023!!), SPR can organise an information session around the end of May; bikes, training and preparation. Contact Carol comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au if interested.

📸 Photo credits Peter McDonald and official Seven website

 

New Race Day Gear – the SPR Kit Subcommittee and Mayeur are proud to announce the SPR Race Day Hoodie and SPR Race Day Tee for your wearing pleasure.

You know you want one.

Unlike our normal kit orders, these items may be ordered any time and will be delivered direct to your door. Order on the Mayeur SPR shop here.

 

Criterium racing this weekend – If you want to race, or get in on the action watching others race, read on.

1. WCMCC Bibra Lake Criterium

 

 

From the Ride Coordinator – Communication is critical in peletons. It begins before the ride with reading the blog, and knowing the ride route the group will be riding. There were a few close calls last week with riders heading in the wrong direction. If you know the group is about to turn, call it out and pass it on. Observations from the front AND back of the group need to be passed to all. We’re generally good at passing messages from front to back, but less so at passing them forward when there is news from the rear – typically “car-back”, “split” or “single file”. Lets focus on that this week so we can all have fun, stay safe & enjoy the Goldilocks weather.

With the last of the Easterly winds this weekend, we’re heading to Holmes Rd. There’s only one climb, but it has a bit of a sting. Once you’re over it, you can enjoy downhill, and then the tail wind home.

Saturday 23rd April

Sunday 24th April

Monday 25th April – Anzac Day

Tuesday 26th April

  • Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
  • Ride starts Frasers ave at 5:45am
    • Development group – interval training kings park

Wednesday 27th April

Thursday 28th April

Friday 29th April