All posts by Daniel Harvey

Ride Routes 20 – 26th April

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It has been a huge week, with SPR members heading east for some spectacular cycling. And some spectacular results – from UCI qualifications at the Tour de Brisbane through to the an U/23 Women’s Oceania Time Trial Champion. Kudos.

First up, a huge congratulations to Sophia Sammons on her win at the Oceania Time Trial Championship! A win in the U/23 category and second fastest women overall. Congratulations! Well done Sophia and kudos to the whole team at Cycling Development Foundation for their work supporting Sophia to her success. All the results here here.

Congratulations also to Kate Bonner for her performance in the Oceania Road Race. Kate put in an impressive ride, in what she described as a “brutal” day. Her race included getting dropped, chasing back on before losing the group with 15km to go. It should be mentioned that Kate finished 16th of 18 finishers in a race that saw almost half the race DNF. Well done Kate! All the results here.

Then we come to the Tour de Brisbane. We had lots of SPR riders participating, with the standouts being

  • Michael Bonner – 2nd (60-64 age group)
  • Lauren Humphreys – 3rd (19-34)
  • Rebecca Kelly – 4th in (45-49)
  • Claire Tyrrell – 6th (35-39)

Special mentions go to Lily Handoyo, Maurice Herrmann, Julian Johnson, Andrew Lilley, Greg Murray and Raymond Smith who rode on the day — and most (all?) qualified for the UCI worlds.

See all the results here. Please let me know who I missed (!!).

Finally, thanks to everyone who participated in the 2024 edition of the SPR Water Tower Challenge (write-up below).

Daniel

Sophia Sammons Podium
Sophia on the bike
Tour de Brisbane
Tour de Brisbane Podium – Michael Bonner
Tour de Brisbane Podium – Lauren Humphreys
Oceania’s Road Race – Kate Bonner
Tour de Brisbane
Tour de Brisbane
Sophia Sammons U23 TT Champion

Water Towers Wrap Up — The 2024 Water Towers boasted 75 riders in teams of 2, 3 or 4, riding the 100km or 100 mile events. With perfect weather conditions riders set out around Perth to visit the various water towers around Perth on our Southern course. There are many climbs to navigate with two water stops for essential snakes, bananas and lamingtons (only if you do the 100 miles). 

What makes this event great is the casual nature and the many many volunteers helping fill water bottles, handing out cold cans of coke or passing the lollies around. A big thanks goes out to the 10 plus volunteers that made the event operate seamlessly and without them the event would not be as big a success as it is.

Last of all congratulations to all the riders who participated in the event. There were many exhausted teams at the finish but with smiles on their faces telling stories about the day. This community feel, is why we love to ride.

We hope to see you all, plus more riders, next year.

The Race Subcommittee

SPR TOMR 2024 Information Evening — SPR is super-excited to announce the launch of the Tour of Margaret River 2024, starting with our information evening on the 1 May. Check out all the details and RSVP here.

SPR Giro d’Italia Dinner — The recent Paris–Roubaix was certainly exciting viewing and soon we will be treated with the Giro d’Italia. To mark the start of the grand tours in Europe 2024, the club is having a dinner at Bravo’s in East Victoria Park – fabulous food and friendly staff make it special.

Bring family and join friends for a classic Italian meal.

Menu $65 pp for a 3-course meal – fully licensed.

Tickets and all the details

SPR French Alps Trip 2024 — The French Alps are calling cyclists – don’t miss out – only three places left!! 💚

The itinerary, quality hotels, fully equipped support vehicles provided throughout the trip is truly remarkable for a very affordable price. Thirteen Main 2 riders have already signed up for the SPR French Alps cycle trip with Christophe so don’t miss out – itinerary attached.

The 16-day trip starting in Geneva 31 August takes you through the iconic French Alps for ~ 700km to Nice. If you are interested, please put in an expression of interest via this link.

SPR is arranging this tour to support a collegial cycling experience in Europe with familiar likeminded colleagues.

Perth Hills Gran Fondo — The Perth Hills Gran Fondo evolved out of the City of Armadale Grand Fondo, the first ever Gran Fondo in WA.

The event this year offers three distances: Piccolo 47km (647m elevation) $120, Medio 86km (1453m) $130 and the Gran 136km (2369m) $140. 

Each of the three rides transverse the Perth Hills covering Kalamunda, Gooseberry Hill, Boya, Darlington, Mundaring, Carmel and Pickering Brook, all starting and finishing at the Hills Emporio in Karragullen. 

More details here: https://piet.com.au/perth-hills-gran-fondo

You may want to chat with Petra Bauer or Christine McCarthy who are registered for the Gran and Medio distances respectively.

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

1. WA Cyclocross Numbat Cup One

2. MCC Stan Gurney VC Memorial Criterium (25/Apr)

3. CCC Tom Lowry Memorial Road Race (27/Apr)

 

Juniors Ride — Great turnout last week with a number or new and returning riders. Thanks everyone for coming along. I also want to remind that there will be no SPR junior rides on 20 and 27 April as we have leaders away — check back in the following week for details when we resume!

From the Ride Coordinator — With the sun rising later in the morning, having working lights on your bike is a must.

Familiarising yourself with the route will help make the ride safer for you and the rest of the group. We have great weather again this weekend – enjoy.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our winter time of 7am. Take note 🥶

Saturday 20th April

Sunday 21st April

Monday 22nd April

Tuesday 23rd April

Wednesday 24th April

Thursday 25th April – Anzac Day Public Holiday

Friday 26th April

Ride Routes 13 – 19th April

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SPR is super-excited to announce the launch of the Tour of Margaret River 2024, starting with our information evening on the 1 May. Check out all the details and RSVP here.

Also check out the launch of our 2024 dinner series with the Giro d’Italia dinner – this year at Bravo’s!

And the rest – Water Tower Challenge this weekend and hills gran fondo later in the month. Not to mention juniors and all the usual SPR rides 💚

On a more serious note, I would like to flag our Tuesday “little ring” ride for your attention. You will know from our ride routes overview that this ride has always had space for riders not in the small chain ring but I would like to emphasise this point as it has come up in discussion more recently. I know that from my perspective, my most recent Di2 derailleur locks out the smaller gears when in the small chain ring, making my spin efforts all the more challenging. Here is the thing: The Tuesday morning ride is a “small chain ring” ride aimed at emphasising high cadence, so please honour that intent when you ride. Please do feel free ride in the big ring if you need to in order to stay with the group, but do not go to the front and push the group when you do so — this does not honour intent of the ride nor reflect the club’s values.

See you out on the bike.

Daniel

SPR Giro d’Italia Dinner — The recent Paris–Roubaix was certainly exciting viewing and soon we will be treated with the Giro d’Italia. To mark the start of the grand tours in Europe 2024, the club is having a dinner at Bravo’s in East Victoria Park – fabulous food and friendly staff make it special.

Bring family and join friends for a classic Italian meal.

Menu $65 pp for a 3-course meal – fully licensed.

Tickets and all the details

SPR French Alps Trip 2024 — The French Alps are calling cyclists – don’t miss out – only three places left!! 💚

The itinerary, quality hotels, fully equipped support vehicles provided throughout the trip is truly remarkable for a very affordable price. Thirteen Main 2 riders have already signed up for the SPR French Alps cycle trip with Christophe so don’t miss out – itinerary attached.

The 16-day trip starting in Geneva 31 August takes you through the iconic French Alps for ~ 700km to Nice. If you are interested, please put in an expression of interest via this link.

SPR is arranging this tour to support a collegial cycling experience in Europe with familiar likeminded colleagues.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on this Sunday!! All the details and entry here – there is still time to sign up 💚💪🏻

Perth Hills Gran Fondo — The Perth Hills Gran Fondo evolved out of the City of Armadale Grand Fondo, the first ever Gran Fondo in WA.

The event this year offers three distances: Piccolo 47km (647m elevation) $120, Medio 86km (1453m) $130 and the Gran 136km (2369m) $140. 

Each of the three rides transverse the Perth Hills covering Kalamunda, Gooseberry Hill, Boya, Darlington, Mundaring, Carmel and Pickering Brook, all starting and finishing at the Hills Emporio in Karragullen. 

More details here: https://piet.com.au/perth-hills-gran-fondo

You may want to chat with Petra Bauer or Christine McCarthy who are registered for the Gran and Medio distances respectively.

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

1. SPR Perth Watertower Challenge 2024

2. WCMCC Dog Hill Road – Baldivis – Grades Road Races

3. MCC Stan Gurney VC Memorial Criterium (25/Apr)

 

Juniors Ride — After practicing sessions on drills, climbing and sprints, it is now time for a time trial practice.

On 13/4 we will meet in Bibra Lake for a time trial session at 10.30am. We will all gather at the Bibra Lake Reserve car park (https://maps.app.goo.gl/QRpAzAXVtdUu4UCp8). If this is full you can use the AW car park (https://maps.app.goo.gl/Xi67A3UXKMrzVhgw6). The ride will be around Bibra lake and this is the course: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/259828592. We will all ride together on the ~6km course to warm up and eventually we will start our time trial.

Depending on the number of the children we might ride individual or team TT. One adult will be with the individual or the team for each effort to make sure the children do not get lost.

From the Ride Coordinator — It’s a great idea to stay on top of your bike maintenance to avoid any disappointments on those longer rides.

This Sunday we have the annual water tower club fundraiser, which is a great opportunity to challenge yourself. Good luck to all those taking part.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our winter time of 7am. Take note 🥶

Saturday 13th April

Sunday 14th April

Monday 15th April

Tuesday 16th April

Wednesday 17th April

Thursday 18th April

Friday 19th April

Ride Routes 6th – 12th April

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Just a few things to highlight this week. If you’re interested in the Paris-Roubaix, check out the get-together below.

A reminder that we have our Water Tower Challenge in a few weeks, and also the opportunity to participate in the Perth Hills Gran Fondo later in the month.

And good luck to everyone participating in the 4Five+ Tiger Tracks event on down south this weekend!

Finally, a welcome to our new Ride Coordinator, Ian Davis. Ian has been a member and a Ride Leader for a number of years, and this year has taken on the the Ride Coordinator role. See his first write-up and ride routes choice below. Kudos Ian.

Daniel

Perth Hills Gran Fondo — The Perth Hills Gran Fondo evolved out of the City of Armadale Grand Fondo, the first ever Gran Fondo in WA.

The event this year offers three distances: Piccolo 47km (647m elevation) $120, Medio 86km (1453m) $130 and the Gran 136km (2369m) $140. 

Each of the three rides transverse the Perth Hills covering Kalamunda, Gooseberry Hill, Boya, Darlington, Mundaring, Carmel and Pickering Brook, all starting and finishing at the Hills Emporio in Karragullen. 

More details here: https://piet.com.au/perth-hills-gran-fondo

You may want to chat with Petra Bauer or Christine McCarthy who are registered for the Gran and Medio distances respectively.

Paris-Roubaix Live at The Local Hotel — Adrian has organised a get-together to watch the Paris-Roubaix! This Sunday night, Paris-Roubaix will be screened live at The Local Hotel in South Fremantle. These’s usually good SPR crowd in attendance. Hope to see you there.

See on Facebook here.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on again!! The new course was well received last year and it back for 2024. Put Sunday 14 April 2024 in the diary and give some thought to whether you select the imperial or metric edition.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024

Ride against the clock in teams of 2-4 riders, through the Perth suburbs in search of water towers. You will likely find water towers that you never knew existed and visit suburbs you do not usually ride through north and south of the Swan River.

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support the rider leaders programme that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

All the details on EntryBoss or see our previous post.

There is still opportunity to help as a volunteer for the event – get in touch here.

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

1. WCMCC Spendid Park – Yanchep – Graded Criterium

2. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 1 of 2 – Gravel Road Race (6/Apr)

3. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 2 of 2 – Gravel Time Trial (7/Apr)

4. Perth Watertower Challenge 2024 (14/Apr)

 

Juniors Ride — Our next junior ride will focus on drills. We will practise again some rolling and how to give turns in the front. Children will learn how to work as a team. The ideal spot for this is again the Shelley foreshore.

The appointment is on Sat the 6th at 10am in front of the public toilets of Shelley beach park (https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yz2GPuHo5ZrY3CJu9)

From the Ride Coordinator — One element of an enjoyable group ride is good communication. Some examples of items to share with the group are: obstructions, a split in the group(allows riders to slow down) or last wheel(helps with efficient rolling).

The weather is good again, so enjoy the rides available this weekend.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our winter time of 7am. Take note 🥶

Saturday 6th April

Sunday 7th April

Monday 8th April

Tuesday 9th April

Wednesday 10th April

Thursday 11th April

Friday 12th April

Ride Routes 30th March – 5th April

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Not much on the racing front this weekend, but lots of opportunities for riding, including two Public Holiday rides and our 11th Annual VP’s Good Friday Ride!

If you haven’t already, please have a read about volunteering in our upcoming Water Tower Challenge or joining a Subcommittee. All the details and a Goggle Form to sign up to help here.

Enjoy the long weekend, however you celebrate Easter, and perhaps see you out on the bike.

Daniel

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on again!! The new course was well received last year and it back for 2024. Put Sunday 14 April 2024 in the diary and give some thought to whether you select the imperial or metric edition.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024

Ride against the clock in teams of 2-4 riders, through the Perth suburbs in search of water towers. You will likely find water towers that you never knew existed and visit suburbs you do not usually ride through north and south of the Swan River.

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support the rider leaders programme that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

All the details on EntryBoss or see our previous post.

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

1. (not this weekend… it’s Easter)

2. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 1 of 2 – Gravel Road Race (6/Apr)

3. Perth Watertower Challenge 2024 (14/Apr)

 

Juniors Ride — Our next ride will be a gentle stroll from Shelley to Heathcote reserve and return (~22km). We will test our legs in the final short climb before reaching the park at Heathcote reserve where we could stop for a treat and then go back along the same way. The course (one way) is available at this link:
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/256338775

The appointment is at 10.30am at the Shelley beach park (near the public toilettes).

From the Ride Coordinator — A big weekend of riding coming up – with two public holidays and the VP’s ride on Friday as an option for those wanting a few extra km, with some hot cross buns and the occasional miracle thrown in.So many choices! But wait – there’s more – perfect riding weather every day! Maybe it’s time to challenge yourself on Saturday and move up a group – you’ll never get there if you don’t go there. There are always groups behind happy to pick up those that drop back, and everyone respects those who try.

Remember your lights for the early rides, and enjoy the long weekend.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our winter time of 7am. Take note 🥶

Saturday 30th March

Sunday 31st March

Monday 1st April – Easter Monday Public Holiday

Tuesday 2nd April

Wednesday 3rd April

Thursday 4th April

Friday 5th April

Ride Routes 23rd – 29th March

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We have a call for volunteers (x2 – get involved!) and I want to welcome our new Committee following our AGM last Saturday.

I am pleased to announce the Committee for 2024 as follows:

  • President – Daniel Harvey
  • Vice President – Andrew Ballam
  • Secretary – Tom Goerke
  • Treasurer – Shirley Vine
  • General Committee Members – Mark De Castro, Carol Dowse, Maurice Hermann, Danielle Collins, Giovanni Firmani, Jon Hanson, Claire Tyrrell, Amanda Nabi

This represents a huge thank you to Steve Burns, Greg Jones and Amy Currie, who are stepping off the Committee. And a warm welcome to Jon Hanson and Claire Tyrrell who join the Committee for 2024.

It is worth mentioning that both Steve and Amy will remain involved with the Race Subcommittee, assisting Maurice (who has taken on the role of Race this year) in all things race (think TOMR and crit season in particular).

It does however lead me to subcommittees, and the Committee’s first Call for Volunteers. If you have some space to give back and would like to be involved, the SPR Subcommittees are a great place to get to know the club a little better at the same time contributing to the life of club.

If you are interested in any of these subcommittees, please get in touch / register your interest via the Google Form below.

  • Race Subcommittee
  • Kit Subcommittee
  • Development & Training Subcommittee
  • Ride Leader Subcommittee
  • SPR Chicks (Women’s Interests)

We also would love to hear from a few more volunteers for our upcoming Water Tower Challenge. Not to mention a reminder to register if you want to ride! (details below)

Call for Volunteers – Subcommittees + Water Tower

Don’t forget we have a Public Holiday next week, and especially the 11th Annual VP’s Good Friday Ride!

Daniel

Cyclocross is back for 2024 — CX is back for another big season of cyclocross! Sunday 24 March 2024 Party in the Park.

What’s the day about? It includes a Skills n Drills session for riders new to cyclocross and race categories spanning kids through seniors.

Check out all the information on the WACX Website and Entryboss.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on again!! The new course was well received last year and it back for 2024. Put Sunday 14 April 2024 in the diary and give some thought to whether you select the imperial or metric edition.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024

Ride against the clock in teams of 2-4 riders, through the Perth suburbs in search of water towers. You will likely find water towers that you never knew existed and visit suburbs you do not usually ride through north and south of the Swan River.

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support the rider leaders programme that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

All the details on EntryBoss or see our previous post.

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

1. PDCC Hilly TT & BBQ 2024

2. Party in the Park – CX O’Day 24

3. WCMCC Bibra Lake Criterium

4. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 1 of 2 – Gravel Road Race (6/Apr)

5. Perth Watertower Challenge 2024 (14/Apr)

 

Juniors Ride — We have excellent attendance last week, thank you to all, I am very happy how things are progressing with the juniors. We received some good feedback regarding, even though the session was quite hard with two repeats and one warm up on Cardiac Hill. It seems that everyone enjoyed the day! Unfortunately I am on family duties next week and so there will be no organised juniors ride this wee.

However, kids can take part in the first ride of the CX season at Perry Lakes on the Sunday. There is a skills session at 11am and the ride starts at 12pm for the kids but see all the details above.

Please note that all riders taking part in WACX events need to have a valid AusCycling racing membership (the 4 week Free Trial Membership is OK for this event).

From the Ride Coordinator — Some fun routes this weekend – Holmes Rd on Saturday – the most popular route according to our recent survey, and Canning Mills climb on both short and long rides on Sunday – one of the great Perth climbs IMHO.

Group sizes and pace have improved in recent months, thanks to the riders moving up quickly, and maintaining efforts that match the riders around them. Keep it up.

Red lights mean STOP. If it’s amber and you’re near the front of the group, call STOPPING so the group slows and stops safely. If some go through, call SPLIT, so the front riders can ease up and wait. We don’t want anyone to feel pressured into shooting a red light. We’re heading into the Goldilocks weather months – let’s all enjoy them safely.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our winter time of 7am. Take note 🥶

Saturday 23rd March

Sunday 24th March

Monday 25th March

Tuesday 26th March

Wednesday 27th March

Thursday 28th March

Friday 29th March

Ride Routes 16th – 22nd March

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Many of you will recall that leading into the Christmas break last year, Jimmy shared with us his cancer story and the challenge he set himself to ride the Festive 500 whilst undergoing chemotherapy, with the goal of fundraising for cancer research.

I, as many of you will also have, received an email today announcing the total of $29,672 raised for the Cure Brain Cancer Foundation and the Mark Hughes Foundation.

Huge kudos Jimmy.

Don’t forget we have our Annual General Meeting coming up this Saturday (16 March) and we look forward to everyone’s participation. You will see from the voting forms in your email that we have several new people who have put up their hands for the Committee.

See you out on the bike.

Daniel

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on again!! The new course was well received last year and it back for 2024. Put Sunday 14 April 2024 in the diary and give some thought to whether you select the imperial or metric edition.

Ride against the clock in teams of 2-4 riders, through the Perth suburbs in search of water towers. You will likely find water towers that you never knew existed and visit suburbs you do not usually ride through north and south of the Swan River.

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support the rider leaders programme that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

All the details on EntryBoss or see our previous post.

 

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

1. WCMCC Herne Hill Graded Road Race

2. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 1 of 2 – Gravel Road Race (6/Apr)

3. Perth Watertower Challenge 2024 (14/Apr)

 

Juniors Ride — It is now time to test the legs of juniors with some climbs. So, this time we will meet in Kings Park to practice with some uphill and downhill riding. We will meet on 16/Marh at 10.30am at the DNA tower car park (https://maps.app.goo.gl/sfh9ePEnkdXrL6fN8).

From the Ride Coordinator — Thanks again for the excellent cooperation at the start on Saturdays. Group sizes are looking good, and moving out swiftly. On the down side, there have been a few more spills recently – something we’re desperate to avoid.

Inattention is by far the greatest cause of accidents. Put it differently – riding too close to the wheel in front, and not concentrating enough. If a rider in front slows down for ANY reason, others should always be in a position to follow suit without riding into the back wheel. To do this we need to ensure our following distance matches our reaction speed. When reaching for a water bottle or removing arm-warmers, drop back a meter or two first; everyone’s reaction time is slower with only one hand on the bars.

It helps a LOT if riders call “SLOWING” or “HOLE” to warn riders behind of changing conditions & hazards on the road. Let’s all focus and communicate more to avoid touching wheels, or worse.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our winter time of 7am. Take note 🥶

Saturday 16th March

Sunday 17th March

Monday 18th March

Tuesday 19th March

Wednesday 20th March

Thursday 21st March

Friday 22nd March

Ride Routes 9 – 15th March

We have our Annual General Meeting coming up Saturday 16 March and we look forward to everyone’s participation. Keep in mind that nominations for the Committee are open until tomorrow (Friday) night – see our formal announcement here and also my most recent shoutout.

All members should also have received the announcement from Tom, our Secretary, by email last Friday. If you did not receive this email, please let us know as the voting email will go to same email address tomorrow evening.

Enjoy your riding, especially those doing the Canteen Ride this weekend and those heading to Bridgetown for the Tour of Blackwood. Not to mention the Peaks Challenge in Falls Creek.

See you out on the bike.

Daniel

SPR Chicks Feedback Survey — Each year, the SPR Women’s sub-committee creates a range of events for the women of the club. To keep creating events enjoyable to our members, your feedback and suggestions for future events is appreciated.

SPR Chicks Feedback Survey

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on again!! The new course was well received last year and it back for 2024. Put Sunday 14 April 2024 in the diary and give some thought to whether you select the imperial or metric edition.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024

Ride against the clock in teams of 2-4 riders, through the Perth suburbs in search of water towers. You will likely find water towers that you never knew existed and visit suburbs you do not usually ride through north and south of the Swan River.

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support the rider leaders programme that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

This open to all – SPR members and non-members.

Categories:

The SPR Water Tower Challenge is a participation event designed to challenge riders of any ability. Whether it is to traverse the course in the fastest time or just record a century, this event is for you. There are two routes to choose from: the imperial century (101 kms) and the metric century (160 kms).

Make sure you read the full details on EntryBoss.

And if you are not able to ride on the day, please consider helping out as a volunteer.

Get in touch with Steve via the race@southperthrouleurs.com.au email to sign up as a volunteer.

Ride or volunteer… get involved 😎💚

 

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

1. NBCC Splendid Park Criterium

2. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 1 of 2 – Gravel Road Race

3. Perth Watertower Challenge 2024

 

Juniors Ride — No juniors ride this weekend as we have people away in Bridgetown for the Tour of Blackwood. Check back next week.

From the Ride Coordinator — This Sunday – start times for long and short hills rides change to 7am. Please talk about this over coffee with your group on Saturday – as we know, not everyone reads the blog. Wednesday mid-week ride also starts up next week.

Lets keep up the momentum thats been building over the last few weeks with the mustering at the start of Fast and Fast2 groups. It’s been efficient at the start, and group sizes are good, which makes for a good day out for all.

Sunday’s short hills ride doesn’t have a water stop in Kalamunda – so make sure you carry enough with you. Long Hills is a beaut – but not for the faint hearted. F’nburg, Peet and Urch are steep, (but not too long), and there are a few “normal climbs as well. A stunning route if the legs are there, but take the short group if you’re unsure.

Stay safe and enjoy the cooler weather.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our winter time of 7am. Take note 🥶

Saturday 9th March

Sunday 10th March

Monday 11th March

Tuesday 12th March

Wednesday 13th March

Thursday 14th March

Friday 15th March

Ride Routes 2nd – 8th March

Last weekend saw Renae’s Race 2024 take place, and whilst not quite everything we had hoped for — the main event in the form of the Women’s Open race was rained out 😢 — it was opportunity for lots of racing, and in particular, lots of women racing.

By my count, there were just on 20 SPR members racing, with special mention going to:

  • Women’s B grade
    • 🥈 Claire Rapson
    • 🥉 Nancy Tippaya
  • Men’s B grade
    • 🥇 Mathew Wardynec
  • Junior B
    • 🥉 Casey Bunton

Check out some photos below.

This coming weekend, whether you are racing in the crits or heading out on a Public Holiday ride, have a wonderful long weekend.

Daniel

SPR Chicks Feedback Survey — Each year, the SPR Women’s sub-committee creates a range of events for the women of the club. To keep creating events enjoyable to our members, your feedback and suggestions for future events is appreciated.

SPR Chicks Feedback Survey

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on again!! The new course was well received last year and it back for 2024. Put Sunday 14 April 2024 in the diary and give some thought to whether you select the imperial or metric edition.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024

Ride against the clock in teams of 2-4 riders, through the Perth suburbs in search of water towers. You will likely find water towers that you never knew existed and visit suburbs you do not usually ride through north and south of the Swan River.

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support the rider leaders programme that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

This open to all – SPR members and non-members.

Categories:

The SPR Water Tower Challenge is a participation event designed to challenge riders of any ability. Whether it is to traverse the course in the fastest time or just record a century, this event is for you. There are two routes to choose from: the imperial century (101 kms) and the metric century (160 kms).

Make sure you read the full details on EntryBoss.

And if you are not able to ride on the day, please consider helping out as a volunteer.

Get in touch with Steve via the race@southperthrouleurs.com.au email to sign up as a volunteer.

Ride or volunteer… get involved 😎💚

 

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

1. PDCC 23-24 Summer Criterium Race 4

2. WCMCC Kewdale Graded Criterium

3. Perth Watertower Challenge 2024

 

Juniors Ride — I would like to congratulate Casey and Claudia for their performances in last Sunday’s race, where they secured 3rd and 2nd places in the junior B grade male and female categories, respectively. Their effort throughout the race was commendable. Fantastic job, both of you!

Looking ahead to next weekend, our training will shift focus towards building endurance. We are planning a ~20km cycling session designed to enhance our stamina. The pace will be comfortable and steady, allowing us to maintain a low intensity throughout. However, we may occasionally pick up the speed in certain sections to add variety to our ride. I have outlined the proposed route: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/251017135

We will start again from Shelley beach (https://maps.app.goo.gl/kiuYkanTPNu4C5V56) at 10.30am on 2/3/2024 and stop for a treat at Lo Quay cafe.

From the Ride Coordinator — As the days get shorter, two points to note. 1. Sunday Hills rides will change to 7am start on 10th March. This Sunday is still 6am.  2. Working lights front and back are a necessity for early rides. I was reminded recently that while flashing rear lights are great for visibility in car traffic, they are a safety hazard when riding in a group. Riders behind are blinded by the flashes, making it unsafe.

Last Saturday despite several cautionary words, we saw two crashes – one at a roundabout and one at a sharp bend. While there wasn’t much rain on the rides and road conditions looked fine, road surfaces were horrendously slippery. Riders slowed down to what would normally be a very safe speed, but it was not enough. There’s a good chance of more rain again this weekend, especially early on Sunday, so please take extra care by slowing down and increasing your following distance through roundabouts & corners. We really want everyone back safely at the coffee shop.

Saturday 2nd March

Sunday 3rd March

Monday 4th March — Labour Day Public Holiday

Tuesday 5th March

Wednesday 6th March

Thursday 7th March

Friday 8th March

Ride Routes 24th February – 1st March

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024 — It’s on again!! The new course was well received last year and it back for 2024. Put Sunday 14 April 2024 in the diary and give some thought to whether you select the imperial or metric edition.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2024

Ride against the clock in teams of 2-4 riders, through the Perth suburbs in search of water towers. You will likely find water towers that you never knew existed and visit suburbs you do not usually ride through north and south of the Swan River.

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support the rider leaders programme that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

This open to all – SPR members and non-members.

Categories:

The SPR Water Tower Challenge is a participation event designed to challenge riders of any ability. Whether it is to traverse the course in the fastest time or just record a century, this event is for you. There are two routes to choose from: the imperial century (101 kms) and the metric century (160 kms).

Make sure you read the full details on EntryBoss.

And if you are not able to ride on the day, please consider helping out as a volunteer.

Get in touch with Steve via the race@southperthrouleurs.com.au email to sign up as a volunteer.

Ride or volunteer… get involved 😎💚

Canteen 2024 — Canteen is on again 9-11 March 2024 to raise funds supporting young people impacted by cancer. The 300-400km ride from Bassendean to Busselton over 2.5 days caters to all levels of cyclist with five groups, from slower no hills to faster with hills. The organisation is superb and riders are kept safe with support vehicles front and back of each group. You start and finish in Perth…it does not get easier that that! 

More details here.

 

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

1. RCCC Renae’s Race 2024

2. WCMCC Wangara Criterium

3. Perth Watertower Challenge 2024

 

Juniors Ride — Some of the juniors will have a race on Sunday. So it is wise if we rest on Saturday to prepare for the race.

We need to make sure the bikes are in working order and compliant with the gear limitations. I would like to remind you that the limit is 5.5m of rolling distance for U13. I sent you a table with some gear combinations that can be adopted. I also calculated that a 34 x 12 develops a 5.49m roll out distance. This gear ratio is probably the best as it will allow to block the front derailleur and only one sprocket in the back.

Miqhael is not competing on Saturday and I will be practising with him on Saturday morning if he will be available. You are welcome to join but we will focus on bike handling skills this time. I will see him in Shelley where we met last week (https://maps.app.goo.gl/WSvog4aHHh1USKKw8) at 10.30am.

From the Ride Coordinator — Regular bike maintenance by an expert does more than just keep the bike running smoothly. It can prevent accidents caused by loose parts, brake-failure, cracks, gears slipping or chains dropping. Have yours checked or do it yourself if you have the knowledge, experience and the tools. Some cooler weather on the weekend after another scorcher on Friday – even the possibility of some rain. Take extra care on corners if there is rain before or during the ride. After a long dry spell, the rain lifts old oil/diesel from the road surface, making it super-slippery. Another reminder to help at the start on Saturday by moving up when called, to keep those group sizes to around 15 riders, starting with Fast and Fast 2.

Sunday’s Short hills is a newer one, with an interesting back route from Lawnbrook Rd across to Mundaring Weir Rd, and a return via the Zig-Zag instead of Welshpool Rd. Long hills does a detour half way up Welshpool Rd that brings you back onto Lesmurdie Rd near the top of the hill.

Lots of good options to enjoy!

*** NOTE: We updated the Saturday ride due to the Rottnest Channel Swim. ***

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our summer time of 6am. Take note‼️

Saturday 24th February

Sunday 25th February

Monday 26th February

Tuesday 27th February

Wednesday 28th February

Thursday 29th February

Friday 1st March

Ride Routes 17th – 23rd February

It’s that time of year again.

We will be shortly put out the notice for the club’s annual general meeting. This has always been important in the life of SPR, for a at least two reasons. First, from the very beginning (read “in our constitution“), our club has valued the principle that the Committee serves according to the will of the members. So whilst we have Committee members, myself included, who have served for many years — it is an important part of the life of the club that all positions are vacated and filled based on a annual general meeting at which all members participate.

The second reason in to my mind is that the AGM stands as the opportunity for change and a time for new people to get involved in the formal part of the life of the club. This year we have several Committee members who have put in a number of years and have decided not to stand for Committee again. So if you interested, please reach our to myself, our Vice President, our Secretary or any Committee member to discuss.

The SPR Committee is proud of the club that is the South Perth Rouleurs, and what we collectively contribute to the cycling community. If you would like to be involved, either on the Committee or on any of our Subcommittees, now might be the perfect time.

Keep an eye out for the formal notice of the AGM coming up on 16 March 2024.

Finally, please have a read below regarding the Saturday Fast 1 / Fast 2 groups.

Daniel

Canteen 2024 — Canteen is on again 9-11 March 2024 to raise funds supporting young people impacted by cancer. The 300-400km ride from Bassendean to Busselton over 2.5 days caters to all levels of cyclist with five groups, from slower no hills to faster with hills. The organisation is superb and riders are kept safe with support vehicles front and back of each group. You start and finish in Perth…it does not get easier that that! 

More details here.

 

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

1. W.A. State Criterium Championship

2. RCCC Renae’s Race 2024 (next weekend)

 

Juniors Ride — Looking ahead to the weekend, the weather forecast looks a bit cooler with a predicted max temperature of 35 degrees. The plan is to meet slightly earlier to beat the heat, at 10am, and to engage the kids in some high-tempo cycling sessions, with the aim of sparking their interest in joining the junior race on 25/Feb near the Perth International Airport (Renae’s Race at Driver Risk Management on Gorgan Rd).

The perfect spot for these practice sessions is the Shelley and Rossmoyne area along the Canning River. We’ll convene at the “Shelley Beach Park” at 10am near the public toilets (location: link). Our itinerary includes a warm up ride to Rossmoyne, followed by some focused training:

  1. Interval Training: We’ll alternate between 20 seconds of high-intensity cycling (aiming for speeds of 25/30km/h) and 40 seconds of rest, repeating this cycle five times.
  2. Paceline Practice: Riding single file, we’ll take turns leading the pack, maintaining a speed of over 20km/h.

Afterwards, we’ll cycle back to Rossmoyne for more practice, this time focusing on rolling techniques. Finally, we’ll return to Shelley Beach Park at a relaxed/recovery pace. If necessary, we’ll split the group into two for more personalized attention.

The session will last approximately 1 hour and we will ride around 15km.

For those interested in registering for the race, here are the details: link. I recommend opting for Junior B grade, with a registration fee of only $5 for the juniors. However, please note that your child will need a full racing license, which you can check and obtain here: link. Keep in mind that in any race, junior bikes must adhere to gear limitations. For U13 (your category), the maximum allowed roll-out distance is 5.5m.
we’ve done some calculations based on different wheel sizes and tire widths to determine the optimal gear setup for compliance (see attached pic).

If your child’s bike has gears exceeding these limits, the commissaries will allow the derailleur to be blocked out using the limit screw. If you’re unsure how to do this, we’d be happy to demonstrate.

From the Ride Coordinator — The Fast1 and Fast2 Saturday groups provide the opportunity for a solid training ride, and the chance for continuous improvement. For these groups to be sustainable, we need to regularly have around 15 starters per group. We’ve noticed a drop off in size in F1, and a reluctance to move forward when calling out the first groups. People seem nervous about being in F1 or F2, probably because nobody wants to be dropped in the first 5km. We’ve had a discussion about how to address this, and decided on a six week trial of the “Fast First Fifteen”.

We call the fast/first group, and wait till we have 15-ish riders before sending them off. The group needs to look around and set a pace that works for most. It’s OK if some can only do occasional turns in front – it’s a training ride after all.

As always we welcome feedback, so feel free to speak to your ride leaders or a committee member with observations and suggestions.

Saturday looks like being a bit chilly by recent standards, with a minimum temp in the teens and a max in the 20’s. Sunday on the other hand is, well, less chilly. Take plenty of water, protect yourself from the sun and have fun.

IMPORTANT: We have changed the start time of our Sunday Hills rides back to our summer time of 6am. Take note‼️

Saturday 17th February

Sunday 18th February

Monday 19th February

Tuesday 20th February

Wednesday 21st February

Thursday 22nd February

Friday 23rd February