Ride Routes 27th May – 2nd June

Just a brief post tonight. Key reminder is that the Kit Shop is open now for the next order. Until 4 June.

This includes National Kit – particularly pertinent for recent Gran Fondo and Gravel Worlds qualifiers. Nice one.

It looks like we stay dry the weekend. Enjoy. For those interested in racing, the West Coast Masters winter season has kicked off, complete with a team points completion. Day Licenses available so plenty of opportunity to try it out! (you need a WCMCC license not AusCycling license)

See you out on the bike.

Daniel

SPR TOMR 2023 EOI Open — SPR is pleased to formally launch the ToMR 2023 campaign, and call for Expressions of Interest from riders, volunteers, and/or sponsors, who are considering joining the SPR team for this year’s event.

This is not a locked in commitment rather a starting point for contact in the future and further information.

Please use the “I’m interested” link and answer the few brief questions. This will enable the Race Subcommittee to gather information for everything from accommodation to team composition.

We want to ensure that we enable everyone that wants to participate to do so.

I’m interested!

 

Thanks!
SPR Race Subcommittee

 

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

1. WCMCC Neerabup Graded Road Race

2. EGCC 2023 Goldfields Cyclassic – Race (June)

3. EGCC 2023 Goldfields Cyclassic – Community Challenge (June)

 

From the Ride Coordinator — The weather is on board with us again this weekend – albeit a little on the chilly side so make sure you dress appropriately for 5 degree minimum 🥶. Good quality long gloves make a world of difference, and allow for shifting and braking with full control.

On Saturday the main ride does, Karrinyup which for some reason we have not ridden since late 2021, although most of the route will be very familiar from similar routes. Sunday’s long hills route is one of the prettiest rides we do, and well worth the 1,000+ metres of climbing IMO. Don’t miss it if you have the chance.

WARNING: There are new roadworks and an unsealed gravel surface on The Strand in Applecross, just after the steep descent down Majestic hill (Fraser Rd). This will affect most 5.30am rides including Saturday EBR. Please take extra care and warn fellow riders on the approach.

Saturday 27th May

Sunday 28th May

Monday 29th May

Tuesday 30th May

Wednesday 31st May

Thursday 1st June

Friday 2nd June

Kit Shop is open

Kit shop is now open for general kit orders. Orders will close on 4 June so get in quick!

SPRxAUS kit is also available for Gran Fondo and Gravel Worlds qualifiers. If you are going to Gran Fondo Worlds get your order in by Sunday 21 May to ensure your kit arrives in time!

South Perth Rouleurs

Ride Routes 20 – 26th May

On a relatively warm morning last Saturday, over 1,300 riders lined up on the community oval in Nannup, for the starts of SEVEN, FIVE and THREE. Everyone had been eying the weather with trepidation because the forecast had been for significant rain, which fortunately arrived overnight, so despite some mist, we *only* had to face muddy patches and wet surfaces. But more of that later.

It was great to see several friendly faces at the shotgun start and, for those of us not expected to place top ten, it was a relaxed start to the race, which comprised 125km distance (95% gravel or mud) and around 3,000m elevation for the SEVEN course, according to my Strava at least.

From my extensive knowledge of doing this twice, it seems that the pain is loaded to the second half of the race, after the Lewana Cottages food stop. In other words, the first half was very enjoyable, and for me passed without incident and involved stunning views across hills above the low-lying mist.

But back to the mud. Did I mention it had rained heavily overnight? It didn’t take long for everyone to get covered in mud, either from your own wheels or the bikes in front. The mud and grit seemed to get in your eyes, mouth and places where the sun doesn’t shine, even wearing sunnies. In reality though, it was great weather and while I heard many complaints about it making the course slow, the mud didn’t really create too many difficulties for riding. Perhaps I wasn’t going hard enough on those downhills and sharp corners …

Apart from racing on gravel, one of the main differences from a road race is that you spend much of the race riding solo or in small groups, often passing and getting passed by other riders who become very familiar as the race progresses. Because of the huge numbers, it’s surprising how often you see people you know, which is one of the reasons this race is so special. Extra special was riding alongside a lady on a recumbent gravel bike, on one of the sections where the FIVE and SEVEN courses overlapped. It certainly put things into perspective.

My target for the race was to finish under six hours. On reaching Lewana I reckoned I had between five and ten minutes up my sleeve. What I didn’t count on was the excruciating noise coming from my drivetrain from there onwards.  The gravel, sand and mud had finally taken its toll on my bike; after a quick check and seeing no major problems, I had a decision to make: play the mechanical card, or hope everything held together. So of course I continued, and I was rewarded with the constant sound of gravel on metal for the rest of the race.

When I say race, the second half is more of a slog, with long, steep climbs which would be very challenging even without having 75km in the legs already. You are racing against yourself, not others (unless you are really good, and there are more than a few of those in our wonderful club). As time went by, I could see that my six hour target was slipping away from me, so I just did my best. It turns out that my best – this year at least – was good enough to finish in 6:03 … and to qualify, like so many other SPR members, for this year’s Gravel World Championships as a top 25% finisher in my age group.

Now, where exactly is Veneto?!

📸 Lots more SPR members raced in Seven, but I don’t have photos. Do check out Seven’s Facebook page – Ed.

National Volunteers Week is being celebrated right across Australia this week and as a gesture for all the committee, sub committees and ride leaders who give their precious time to keep our club alive and well, please find myself or our treasurer Shirley Vine after this Saturday’s ride for a complimentary coffee.

 

There were 30 people at the SPR Italian dinner on Tuesday at Bella Rosa to celebrate the first of the three grand tours in 2023, the Giro d’talia. Lots of wonderful authentic Italian food, great conversation and just simply relaxing catching up with fellow cyclists (out of lycra) and their partners.

If you missed out on the Giro dinner, save the date for the SPR Tour de France dinner on Tuesday 11 July at Chez Pierre.

 

SPR TOMR 2023 EOI Open — SPR is pleased to formally launch the ToMR 2023 campaign, and call for Expressions of Interest from riders, volunteers, and/or sponsors, who are considering joining the SPR team for this year’s event.

This is not a locked in commitment rather a starting point for contact in the future and further information.

Please use the “I’m interested” link and answer the few brief questions. This will enable the Race Subcommittee to gather information for everything from accommodation to team composition.

We want to ensure that we enable everyone that wants to participate to do so.

I’m interested!

 

Thanks!
SPR Race Subcommittee

 

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

1. PDCC Peel 24 Hour 2023 (20 May)

2. WA Cyclocross 2023 AusCycling Cyclocross National Series Round 1 and Round 2

3. WCMCC Casuarina Graded Scratch Road Race

4. EGCC 2023 Goldfields Cyclassic – Race (June)

5. EGCC 2023 Goldfields Cyclassic – Community Challenge (June)

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Great weather coming up all weekend – unplug the smart trainers and get some sun on the real road. We’ll try again with the same routes for Saturday after being rained out the last two Saturdays.

A reminder that Ridge Hill Rd route does a clockwise loop at the end. Keep straight on Helena Valley Rd after crossing Tonkin Hwy. Sunday’s short and long hills rides do interesting (but different) detours through Lesmurdie, starting with a challenging pinch climb up Melaleuca Rd. Don’t burn all your matches on the first half of Welshpool climb, especially if you’re doing long hills.

The HBF Run for a Reason takes place this Sunday. It should not impact our 7am rides, but may affect some peoples’ ride in or out on the day. Check the road closures here.

Saturday 20th May

Sunday 21st May

Monday 22nd May

Tuesday 23rd May

Wednesday 24th May

Thursday 25th May

Friday 26th May

Ride Routes 13 – 19th May

The SPR Giro Dinner is this Tuesday, and we still have tickets available if you would like to come along!

We are kicking off the first major grand tour cycling events in Europe with dinner at Giro d ’Italia at Café Bella Rosa 51 Archer St, Carlisle WA 6101. Come along and join friends and family for a classic Italian meal in a family restaurant.

16 May 2023. Menu $55 pp; 3 course meal, coffee/tea and BYO change (beer and wine) included. 

Menu attached – purchase via the SPR shop.

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

SPR TOMR 2023 EOI Open — SPR is pleased to formally launch the ToMR 2023 campaign, and call for Expressions of Interest from riders, volunteers, and/or sponsors, who are considering joining the SPR team for this year’s event.

This is not a locked in commitment rather a starting point for contact in the future and further information.

Please use the “I’m interested” link and answer the few brief questions. This will enable the Race Subcommittee to gather information for everything from accommodation to team composition.

We want to ensure that we enable everyone that wants to participate to do so.

I’m interested!

 

Thanks!
SPR Race Subcommittee

West Coast Masters Day Licenses — As many of you will know, there has been a long-standing question for many of us who race, around the need to hold both an AusCycling race license to race as well as a AVCC license in order to race in WCMCC races.

Good news! West Coast Masters have managed to arrange Day Licenses ($50) which mean if you only want to race a few Master’s races, you now have a really good option. Have a read of the President’s Message and check out the poster below announcing the Masters Road Race Season.

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

1. Not much this weekend, but coming up…

2. PDCC Peel 24 Hour 2023 (20 May)

3. EGCC 2023 Goldfields Cyclassic – Race (June)

4. EGCC 2023 Goldfields Cyclassic – Community Challenge (June)

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Well last Saturday was pretty much a no-show, and I’m not too hopeful about this Saturday being any better. Remember that the ride leaders are all volunteers, and like most, we don’t fancy going out when it’s bucketing down. If you do feel like riding and there are no ride leaders, our recommendation is to discuss among those who turn up. Agree how many groups are appropriate and adjust the pace to suit the make-up of the group and the weather conditions.

My own preference in rainy conditions is Zwift. Last winter we arranged SPR Zwift rides when rain was expected, but attendance was low. These days many of us on Zwift are finding the Robo Pacers a great way to ride with a group, at a pace that suits how we’re feeling on the day. Sunday looks a whole lot better for riding, and both long and short groups can enjoy the zigzag for starters…

Saturday 13th May

Sunday 14th May

Monday 15th May

Tuesday 16th May

Wednesday 17th May

Thursday 18th May

Friday 19th May

Ride Routes 6 – 12th May

SPR is pleased to formally launch the ToMR 2023 campaign, and call for Expressions of Interest from riders, volunteers, and/or sponsors, who are considering joining the SPR team for this year’s event.

This is not a locked in commitment rather a starting point for contact in the future and further information.

Please use the “I’m interested” link and answer the few brief questions. This will enable the Race Subcommittee to gather information for everything from accommodation to team composition.

We want to ensure that we enable everyone that wants to participate to do so.

I’m interested!

 

Thanks!
SPR Race Subcommittee

To kick off the major grand tour cycling events in Europe this year SPR are celebrating the Giro d ’Italia at Café Bella Rosa 51 Archer St, Carlisle WA 6101. Come along and join friends and family for a classic Italian meal in a family restaurant.

16 May 2023. Menu $55 pp; 3 course meal, coffee/tea and BYO change (beer and wine) included. 

Menu attached – purchase via the SPR shop.

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

Goldfields Cyclassic — The Goldfields Cyclassic is a very special cycling experience with a history going back to 1928. It is a 2-day graded handicap race from Kalgoorlie to Leonora on the long weekend 3 -4 June 2023; 132km to Menzies day 1, 100km to Leonora day 2. Flat out and furious, how can you resist. In 2023 the event organisers will host a separate mens and ladies handicap race on day 2.

For those looking for a ride there is the Community Challenge where teams of 2 to 4 share the 132km distance.

Registrations early bird finishes 21 April: race $160, community challenge $40 and both include return bike transfers Perth to the event and dinner Saturday night in Menzies. You will need an AusCycling race all disciplines licence to enter the race or a standard AusCylcing lifestyle licence for the community challenge.

Transfers: the charter flight package costs $400 and includes all transfers. Fly up Saturday and return from Leonora Sunday. This is heavily discounted and seats are limited so recommend to book when registering. Saturday night accommodation in Menzies is not included in the package.

For a more leisurely version you can take the train to Kalgoorlie or drive, up Friday back Monday, though you will need to book accommodation in Kalgoorlie Friday and Sunday and Saturday night in Menzies.

Accommodation: if taking the charter flight, you will need to book a night in Menzies for the Saturday night. For all accommodation options check out https://www.cyclassic.com.au/registration-travel/

Please contact Andrew Ballam vp@southperthrouleurs.com.au if interested in racing or Carol comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au for the community challenge.

More information is available at https://www.cyclassic.com.au/

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

1. PDCC 2023 Winter Series – Race 1

2. WA Cyclocross Numbat Cup Two

3. WMCC Kewdale Criterium (Season End + Presentations)

 

From the Ride Coordinator — The weather is going to be a bit average this weekend – so make the most of Saturday morning, as Sunday could be dodgy. The roads will get slippery, even when it’s not raining, so please take extra care on corners and roundabouts, and allow a little extra following distance on the descents. Saturday is Ridge Hill Road, a favorite for getting the route wrong! We do the loop at the end Clockwise; continue straight on towards Ridge Hill Rd after crossing Roe Hwy. Put the routes in the Garmin if necessary, and enjoy the rides.

Saturday 6th May

Sunday 7th May

Monday 8th May

Tuesday 9th May

Wednesday 10th May

Thursday 11th May

Friday 12th May

Ride Routes 29th April – 5th May

Thank you to everyone who came out earlier this week. We had great evening, with lots of people who have not ridden the tour before, and we’re looking forward to the November already.

Thank you to the Race Subcommittee, and everyone else, who helped put together the evening.

See you there in November 💚

Expressions of Interest open soon!

To kick off the major grand tour cycling events in Europe this year SPR are celebrating the Giro d ’Italia at Café Bella Rosa 51 Archer St, Carlisle WA 6101. Come along and join friends and family for a classic Italian meal in a family restaurant.

16 May 2023. Menu $55 pp; 3 course meal, coffee/tea and BYO change (beer and wine) included. 

Menu attached – purchase via the SPR shop.

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

Goldfields Cyclassic — The Goldfields Cyclassic is a very special cycling experience with a history going back to 1928. It is a 2-day graded handicap race from Kalgoorlie to Leonora on the long weekend 3 -4 June 2023; 132km to Menzies day 1, 100km to Leonora day 2. Flat out and furious, how can you resist. In 2023 the event organisers will host a separate mens and ladies handicap race on day 2.

For those looking for a ride there is the Community Challenge where teams of 2 to 4 share the 132km distance.

Registrations early bird finishes 21 April: race $160, community challenge $40 and both include return bike transfers Perth to the event and dinner Saturday night in Menzies. You will need an AusCycling race all disciplines licence to enter the race or a standard AusCylcing lifestyle licence for the community challenge.

Transfers: the charter flight package costs $400 and includes all transfers. Fly up Saturday and return from Leonora Sunday. This is heavily discounted and seats are limited so recommend to book when registering. Saturday night accommodation in Menzies is not included in the package.

For a more leisurely version you can take the train to Kalgoorlie or drive, up Friday back Monday, though you will need to book accommodation in Kalgoorlie Friday and Sunday and Saturday night in Menzies.

Accommodation: if taking the charter flight, you will need to book a night in Menzies for the Saturday night. For all accommodation options check out https://www.cyclassic.com.au/registration-travel/

Please contact Andrew Ballam vp@southperthrouleurs.com.au if interested in racing or Carol comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au for the community challenge.

More information is available at https://www.cyclassic.com.au/

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

1. CCC Tom Lowry Memorial – Road Race Saturday 29th April (entries closed, but enjoy the race!)

2. WCMCC Bibra Lake Criterium

 

From the Ride Coordinator — After the miserable rain these last few days, we have some Goldilocks weather back this weekend. With slippery roads around, remember to call “Stopping” early if you’re at the front of a group approaching an amber light, and only call “Rolling” if the full group will get through safely. As always, good communication makes riding in groups safer and more fun.

Reabold & Cottesloe on Saturday – a scenic course that we haven’t ridden for ages.

Enjoy!

Saturday 29th April

Sunday 30th April

Monday 1st May

Tuesday 2nd May

Wednesday 3rd May

Thursday 4th May

Friday 5th May

Ride Routes 22nd – 28th April

SPR Tour of Margaret River Information Evening — We are pleased to announce that we holding an information night for SPR’s TOMR 2023! The Rouleurs participation in 2022 was our biggest ever, 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 our upcoming information session.

The “Tour” is a team race with over 100 teams of 6 participating. It is held over three days 3 – 5 November based around Nannup and designed with team time trials and individual road races. 

Our information session will include talks from previous participants sharing their insights into preparation and experience. 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 note the change of venue from our earlier save the date!!

Venue:   Old Mill
Melville Place
South Perth WA 6151
Date:     Wednesday 26th April 2023
Time:      6.15pm – 8.30pm
Tickets:  Free

The menu is pizza includes gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. An email will be sent out to all members and tickets will be available from the shop in the coming days.

RSVP for TOMR Information Evening

 

To kick off the major grand tour cycling events in Europe this year SPR are celebrating the Giro d ’Italia at Café Bella Rosa 51 Archer St, Carlisle WA 6101. Come along and join friends and family for a classic Italian meal in a family restaurant.

16 May 2023. Menu $55 pp; 3 course meal, coffee/tea and BYO change (beer and wine) included. 

Menu attached – purchase via the SPR shop.

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

Goldfields Cyclassic — The Goldfields Cyclassic is a very special cycling experience with a history going back to 1928. It is a 2-day graded handicap race from Kalgoorlie to Leonora on the long weekend 3 -4 June 2023; 132km to Menzies day 1, 100km to Leonora day 2. Flat out and furious, how can you resist. In 2023 the event organisers will host a separate mens and ladies handicap race on day 2.

For those looking for a ride there is the Community Challenge where teams of 2 to 4 share the 132km distance.

Registrations early bird finishes 21 April: race $160, community challenge $40 and both include return bike transfers Perth to the event and dinner Saturday night in Menzies. You will need an AusCycling race all disciplines licence to enter the race or a standard AusCylcing lifestyle licence for the community challenge.

Transfers: the charter flight package costs $400 and includes all transfers. Fly up Saturday and return from Leonora Sunday. This is heavily discounted and seats are limited so recommend to book when registering. Saturday night accommodation in Menzies is not included in the package.

For a more leisurely version you can take the train to Kalgoorlie or drive, up Friday back Monday, though you will need to book accommodation in Kalgoorlie Friday and Sunday and Saturday night in Menzies.

Accommodation: if taking the charter flight, you will need to book a night in Menzies for the Saturday night. For all accommodation options check out https://www.cyclassic.com.au/registration-travel/

Please contact Andrew Ballam vp@southperthrouleurs.com.au if interested in racing or Carol comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au for the community challenge.

More information is available at https://www.cyclassic.com.au/

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

1. CCC Tom Lowry Memorial – Road Race Saturday 29th April

2. WCMCC Wangara Super Criterium

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Welshpool & MWR – the short hills ride on Sunday, is an old standard that we haven’t ridden for a while. In the days before Strava, the SPR group (before we became a club) used to maintain a list on the website, of riders’ PBs up Mundaring Weir Road.

Under 9 minutes is a challenge for most, and yet Jai Hindley has gone under six minutes.

Challenge yourself and have a go when you feel up to it. Stay safe and enjoy the perfect weather this weekend – a long one for some.

Saturday 22nd April

Sunday 23rd April

Monday 24th April

Tuesday 25th April – Anzac Day Public Holiday

Wednesday 26th April

Thursday 27th April

Friday 28th April

Ride Routes 15th – 21st April

To kick off the major grand tour cycling events in Europe this year SPR are celebrating the Giro d ’Italia at Café Bella Rosa 51 Archer St, Carlisle WA 6101. Come along and join friends and family for a classic Italian meal in a family restaurant.

16 May 2023. Menu $55 pp; 3 course meal, coffee/tea and BYO change (beer and wine) included. 

Menu attached – purchase via the SPR shop.

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

SPR Tour of Margaret River Info Night — We are pleased to announce that we holding an information night for SPR’s TOMR 2023! The Rouleurs participation in 2022 was our biggest ever, 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 our upcoming information session.

The “Tour” is a team race with over 100 teams of 6 participating. It is held over three days 3 – 5 November based around Nannup and designed with team time trials and individual road races. 

Our information session will include talks from previous participants sharing their insights into preparation and experience. 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.

Here are the details so you can save the date:

Venue:   Melody Wheels,
Unit 7, 4 Pritchard Street,
O’Connor 6163
Date:     Wednesday 26th April 2023
Time:      6.15pm – 8.30pm
Tickets:  Free

The menu is pizza includes gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. An email will be sent out to all members and tickets will be available from the shop in the coming days.

Goldfields Cyclassic — The Goldfields Cyclassic is a very special cycling experience with a history going back to 1928. It is a 2-day graded handicap race from Kalgoorlie to Leonora on the long weekend 3 -4 June 2023; 132km to Menzies day 1, 100km to Leonora day 2. Flat out and furious, how can you resist. In 2023 the event organisers will host a separate mens and ladies handicap race on day 2.

For those looking for a ride there is the Community Challenge where teams of 2 to 4 share the 132km distance.

Registrations early bird finishes 21 April: race $160, community challenge $40 and both include return bike transfers Perth to the event and dinner Saturday night in Menzies. You will need an AusCycling race all disciplines licence to enter the race or a standard AusCylcing lifestyle licence for the community challenge.

Transfers: the charter flight package costs $400 and includes all transfers. Fly up Saturday and return from Leonora Sunday. This is heavily discounted and seats are limited so recommend to book when registering. Saturday night accommodation in Menzies is not included in the package.

For a more leisurely version you can take the train to Kalgoorlie or drive, up Friday back Monday, though you will need to book accommodation in Kalgoorlie Friday and Sunday and Saturday night in Menzies.

Accommodation: if taking the charter flight, you will need to book a night in Menzies for the Saturday night. For all accommodation options check out https://www.cyclassic.com.au/registration-travel/

Please contact Andrew Ballam vp@southperthrouleurs.com.au if interested in racing or Carol comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au for the community challenge.

More information is available at https://www.cyclassic.com.au/

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

1. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel (2 Days)

2. 2023 Dams Challenge

3. AWCMCC Age Group Championships – Kewdale

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Saturday is looking to be dry, but with the rain we’ve had this week, the roads will be more slippery than usual so please take extra care on corners and roundabouts.

A big thanks to everyone for cooperating with group sizes at the start on Saturdays. We’re getting closer to the magic 15-rider/group mark, and the bunches I’ve been riding in seem more evenly matched, so more friends to share the love in the roll-throughs. Sunday’s short hills has a new section from Lawnbrook Rd across to Mundaring Weir Rd via Grove, Stanhope and King Rds. There is also an unconventional return home via the Zigzag, Maida Vale and Kewdale. Load up the Garmin and enjoy the adventure!

Saturday 15th April

Sunday 16th April

Monday 17th April

Tuesday 18th April

Wednesday 19th April

Thursday 20th April

Friday 21st April

Ride Routes 8 – 14th April

It has been some good riding. Last week the 2023 Edition of the SPR Water Tower Challenge and this week the Vice President’s ride – plus the rest of the Easter Public Holiday gourmet selection. Enjoy.

Kudos to everyone that participated. And many thanks to Steve, the Race Subcommittee and volunteers for making it happen on the day.

I, for one, enjoyed the new course – thank you to Andrew Ballam and Steve Burns for putting it together – though I must admit that I almost committed the cardinal sin. As I pulled in to the second feed zone, my Di2 refused to shift out of the little ring… I guess I forgot check the battery 😱… the good news is the rear derailleur continued shifting until the finish line. I think I learned my lesson.

Until next time. Enjoy some finish line photos below.

Read below for news of CanTeen 2023 and the upcoming Goldfields Cyclassic.

Don’t forget we have a Public Holiday this Friday, or come on the 10th Annual VP’s Good Friday Ride.

Daniel

Team Chile
Team Columbia Group A
Team 2 giants and a little lady
Team Columbia Group B
Team Why Vegetables
Team Quokkas
Teams XRR
Team Chris, Jonny, Liam
Team Belson-Cristophe-Michael
Team Coffee Chillers
Team Algebra
Team Carbon Offsets
Team Roy Hill
Team Vertical Limit
Team Epic
Is that a Water Tower
Team Fab 4/2
Team EBPB
Team Late Comers and H2O Boys
Team AvengHERs

Goldfields Cyclassic — The Goldfields Cyclassic is a very special cycling experience with a history going back to 1928. It is a 2-day graded handicap race from Kalgoorlie to Leonora on the long weekend 3 -4 June 2023; 132km to Menzies day 1, 100km to Leonora day 2. Flat out and furious, how can you resist. In 2023 the event organisers will host a separate mens and ladies handicap race on day 2.

For those looking for a ride there is the Community Challenge where teams of 2 to 4 share the 132km distance.

Registrations early bird finishes 21 April: race $160, community challenge $40 and both include return bike transfers Perth to the event and dinner Saturday night in Menzies. You will need an AusCycling race all disciplines licence to enter the race or a standard AusCylcing lifestyle licence for the community challenge.

Transfers: the charter flight package costs $400 and includes all transfers. Fly up Saturday and return from Leonora Sunday. This is heavily discounted and seats are limited so recommend to book when registering. Saturday night accommodation in Menzies is not included in the package.

For a more leisurely version you can take the train to Kalgoorlie or drive, up Friday back Monday, though you will need to book accommodation in Kalgoorlie Friday and Sunday and Saturday night in Menzies.

Accommodation: if taking the charter flight, you will need to book a night in Menzies for the Saturday night. For all accommodation options check out https://www.cyclassic.com.au/registration-travel/

Please contact Andrew Ballam vp@southperthrouleurs.com.au if interested in racing or Carol comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au for the community challenge.

More information is available at https://www.cyclassic.com.au/

CanTeen 2023 — SPR fielded its largest team of 22 cyclists this year with many new participants and so many returning ones. What a wonderful experience with amazing support from across Perth and the towns through which we cycled on our way to Busselton. Safe with escort vehicles, feed at every stop by the local communities and all for a great cause.

The SPR team raised $22,000 to support young people with cancer in WA. Some of the cancer survivors recounted their journey – a very moving experience for everyone. One of our own SPR members Anita Young is an event organiser extraordinaire working throughout the year to make this event happen. 

Team SPR 2023
Post breakfast high

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

Well actually, not much is happening this weekend… plenty of group rides though 😉

1. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 1 (of 2) (early warning)

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Plenty of opportunity in the coming days to catch up with km and it looks like mostly great riding weather throughout the long weekend – fingers crossed the rain stays away for those doing the VP ride on Friday.

Mornings are getting darker again, so please ensure your front and back lights are fitted and batteries charged for early starts. Avoid flashing back lights when riding in groups, as they can be very distracting for riders close behind.

Saturday takes us back to TV Stations which we haven’t done for a while, and some new riders may not have ridden. Sunday short hills is one of our newer rides – Kahuna Irymple & Canning Mills. It adds a stunning new loop at the top of Kahuna with some pinch climbs tempered by beautiful vineyard views. Please take extra care on the descent of Mills Rd East. There is only one lane, and we need to respect the drivers with whom we share the road. Ensure you have sufficient following distance to cars and other bikes.  While the group will regroup at the top of climbs, the ride does not have a water refill stop so please make sure you carry what you need for a 72km ride.

The 30km Shelly Transitional rides are on again, starting at 10am on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month from March till November.

Note that the 5.45am Tuesday and Thursday Kings Park Development Rides have been removed from the schedule as they are no longer happening.

Saturday 8th April

Sunday 9th April

Monday 10th April – Easter Monday

Tuesday 11th April

Wednesday 12th April

Thursday 13th April

Friday 14th April

Ride Routes 1st – 7th April

I will be brief in this week’s blog post due to limited time, but did want to welcome our new Committee following out AGM last Saturday.

I am pleased to announce the Committee for 2023 as follows:

  • President – Daniel Harvey
  • Vice President – Andrew Ballam
  • Secretary – Tom Goerke
  • Treasurer – Shirley Vine
  • General Committee Members – Steve Burns, Mark De Castro, Amy Currie, Carol Dowse, Maurice Hermann, Greg Jones, Danielle Collins, Giovanni Firmani

To my mind, this represents both stability and evolution – both important aspects of a good leadership team for a community organisation. I welcome new members Maurice and Giovanni to committee as well as acknowledging the ongoing commitment of existing committee members who are continuing.

For those who requested copies of the AGM reports, these will go out by email today. I comment more in my AGM report on both the work of the committee and the achievements of SPR as a club collectively. 2022 was a good year.

For those participating in the Water Tower Challenge this weekend, enjoy. I believe we have the weather sorted.

Don’t forget we have a Public Holiday this Friday, and especially the 10th Annual VP’s Good Friday Ride.

Daniel

2023 Committee (*)
AGM Speeches
AGM 2023

PS It was not intentional, but both new committee members were not present for the photo 😥

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. WCMCC Bibra Lake Criterium

3. 4Five+ Tiger Tracks Gravel – Day 1 (of 2) (early warning)

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Last Sunday was the first time in a while I’d ridden in a downpour. There were fewer riders, but the rain passed and we were dry by the time we got to coffee. This week there is no threat, so we expect higher numbers again. This means we need to maintain our discipline with group sizes. You can help on Saturday by considering the group size when deciding whether to move up to the start group, or to wait for the next one. Think about how you’re feeling on the day, and select a group that you think you’ll be able to roll with as an equal participant rather than surging off the front, or hanging on for dear life at the back. You’ll all enjoy the ride a lot more if you’re of similar strength.

Our committee and subcommittees have been listening to feedback on all club rides, and have decided to trial a new Wednesday ride in place of the Stock Rd training. Several routes were tested, and the one chosen is 35km, starting below the Narrows bridge on the SOUTH side, and ending at Raffles. Full route is here: SPR Wednesday 35.3km (2023 Edition)

There will be two groups; one at M1 pace and one slower. The trial will run for three months. Give it a go,and let us know what you think.

Saturday 1st April

Sunday 2nd April

Monday 3rd April

Tuesday 4th April

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

Wednesday 5th April

Thursday 6th April

Friday 7th April

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