Category Archives: Uncategorized

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

Happy riders...

10th Annual VP’s Good Friday Ride

1 Comment

Trying to work out what to do on Good Friday? Come and join us for what is arguably the best club ride of the year!!

This year’s ride is on Friday April 7, and will be celebrating a decade of Good Friday fun!

Starting at the Coode Street carpark at 6am (lights compulsory), we’ll head out along the old three dams course via Midland, then up Greenmount.

Ride route is available here – SPR VP’s Good Friday Ride

Pace for the ride is Main 1ish and there will be SHORT regroups after each climb, as time is of the essence to make it to Wungong Dam for the morning tea and photo opportunity.

There will likely be a Medio Hills ride on offer for those who think that then main ride might be a little out of their reach. The plan would be for the medio ride to to join us at Wungong Dam for morning tea.

Approximate route for the Medio Ride is here – SPR VP’s Good Friday Ride – Medio edition, but it is subject to adjustment depending on interest. Medio ride will be a 7am meet ate the Coode Street carpark.

Preferred dress code is SPR national kit or any other variation of official SPR kits.

Please respond to the Facebook event (or leave a comment below if Mark Zuckerberg doesn’t have all of your details yet) to let us know if you’ll be coming…we want to make sure there is a hot cross bun for everyone!

If anybody is available to assist with the logistics of the morning tea we would be very keen to hear from you!

Ride Routes 25th – 31st March

Good evening all,

So it has been an eventful week. The end of the crit season is upon us with the States this weekend. The Cyclocross season begins with Party in the Park – CX O’Day 23 this weekend (if you’re new to CX, do reach out – many SPR members are very experienced and would be happy to talk you through it all). And the start of the road season is imminent.

It’s all happening. And that does not cover the incident on our most recent Sunday Hills ride. More on that below.

But first I want to send out 💚 and kudos to SPR green on the podium with the PDCC 22-23 Summer Criterium Race 5 last weekend:

  • B Grade – Claire Rapson 1st

Plus a special mention to Elar Kalda, back on the bike and placing 6th after crashing out at the Perth City Criterium several weeks back.

Now to less enjoyable but equally important topics. Following our discussion last week regarding safety, we unfortunately had a relatively serious accident last Sunday descending Welshpool. The accident occurred at speed (70+km/h) on the main section of the descent, and resulted in three riders coming off. Two riders ended up in hospital with broken bones and some serious gravel rash. We are thankful that it was not more serious, and in particular offer thanks to the SPR riders who assisted at the scene and arranged transport and assistance.

The Committee met on Monday evening, and as would be expected, this event – and the safety implications – were discussed in some detail. Whilst some of what occurred last Sunday is still being ascertained, we do have a some thoughts I would like to share.

Firstly, whilst we have removed some routes from our Sunday Hills catalogue due to risks associated with descents, that is not our assessment in this case. Welshpool Road is a fast descent, but is also one of the safest on the SPR list, with an excellent surface, good visibility and lots of room for cars and bikes on the dual carriage way. Not to mention that it is the descent we use most by a significant margin, and this is the first accident of this type we have on record (and we have kept very good records since 2017).

Having said that, please take care when descending, particularly fast descents like Welshpool Road. Some comments with particular emphasis on Welshpool:

  1. Stay in the left lane (leave the right lane for other vehicles).
  2. Look ahead and maintain situational awareness of other riders in the group, and of the traffic in the right-hand-lane.
  3. Maintain a safe distance to the rider in front of you, allowing for the speed at which you are travelling.
  4. Stay left where possible, allowing other riders to roll past on your right to come to the front.
  5. Keep your hands on drops and fingers on the brakes, being careful to brake carefully (you do not want the brakes to grab at speed).
  6. Pay attention to you posture on the bike when descending fast, remembering to relax as this gives better control.

Please ride safely.

Final reminder that our AGM is coming up on the Saturday 25 March (with voting running online this week closing tomorrow night). Details will be in your email – get in touch if you have not received them.

And a reminder to register for our upcoming Water Tower Challenge. All the details below.

Daniel

B Grade Podium
Women’s B

 

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2023 — It’s back!! After some scheduling issues last year, we are pleased to announce that SPR’s epic adventure – available in both imperial and metric editions – has been locked in for Sunday 2 April 2023.

Read our previous blog post or sign up on EntryBoss now, and choose from two all new courses.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2023

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support our Ride Leader Program that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

 Party in the Park – CX O’Day 23 — Cyclocross is back in WA, time to inflate the 33mm tyres, lube the chain and remember what it is like to race in the red, on grass, hop over barriers whilst smiling.

Grades (Women and Men together)

CX Freshers (20mins), First time CX Racer – this grade is for you (we at WACX really hope that you will love cross as much as well all do.)

Keeping the US college theme going…
CX Sophomore (30 mins), Done a couple of CX racers (not more than seven) want to remember what is required and how much fun CX is.

CX Senior (40mins), Raced more than seven, please self seed at the start line.

The U13 will have the opportunity to ride the whole course, U9 will be doing the half lap (to save their parents backs!)

Licensing – All riders including U9 & U13 will need a Race Off Road which is $50 for the year – unfortunately no valid license no start in 2023.

Please plan ahead, please enter early – you have been warned.

Enter via EntryBoss https://entryboss.cc/races/15023

ENTRIES WILL CLOSE Friday 24th March.

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

1. NDCC WA State Criterium Championship

2. WCMCC Herne Hill Graded Scratch Road Race

3. WA Cyclocross Party in the Park – CX O’Day 23

 

From the Ride Coordinator — With the AGM on Saturday, we’d like to get everyone back to Dome by 9am, so we have one of the shortest (and oldest) rides, Canning Vale & Welshpool. Fingers crossed for green lights and not too many cross winds.

Many of the recent spate of crashes have occurred at roundabouts – both large and small, so please take extra care at the roundabouts on Nicholson and William Rd, before and after we cross Albany Hwy. Remember that the road camber (sideways slope) on roundabouts is almost always the wrong way – so slow down, give each other space, and enjoy the ride.

On Sunday we have our third and final Dams Training session open to all participants. Please work with the ride leaders to ensure a good experience for all.

Saturday 25th March

Sunday 26th March

Monday 27th March

Tuesday 28th March

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

Wednesday 29th March

Thursday 30th March

Friday 31st March

Ride Routes 18 – 24th March

We have a few things to cover in tonight’s blog. On serious note, please read though our piece on safety below – SPR take safety very seriously, and in view of some recent incidents (unfortunately including riders coming off during our rides) the Committee would like to put a focus on the subject in our blog tonight.

There is also a round-up of the amazing Perth City Criterium – if you love racing, you will know that the energy of inner city closed roads is a highlight. Also, for anyone that attended (as a racer or spectator) please fill this survey in. It will make a significant contribution to getting support for the event in future years.

Final reminder that our AGM is coming up on the Saturday 25 March (with voting running online the week prior). This means nominations close Friday week (17 March). If you are interested in getting involved, have a read of the blog post here, and get in touch (myself, Tom or any of the Committee).

And a reminder to register for our upcoming Water Tower Challenge. All the details below.

See you out of the bike.

Daniel

Safety — We know that safety is a top concern for all of us when we hit the roads on our bikes. We want to make sure that we are doing everything we can to reduce the risk of harm to ourselves, other cyclists, and our beloved bikes. That’s why at SPR, safety is one of our core pillars, along with being organized, inclusive, and social.

You may not be aware of all the work that goes on behind the scenes to make our rides as safe as possible, so we want to take a moment to highlight some of the things we do.

First up, we have our Ride Leader Program. You may have seen these dedicated volunteers leading the way on our Saturday and Sunday rides. These ride leaders go through extensive training, both in theory and practice, to ensure they are equipped to handle any situation that may arise. We are constantly reviewing and updating our Ride Leader Program to make sure it’s as effective as possible.

Next, we have our route maintenance and review process. Our ride coordinators carefully select and review routes with safety in mind. We try to avoid right-hand turns across multiple lanes of traffic, and we take member feedback into consideration when planning our rides. Recently, we made a change to our Friday morning ride based on member feedback, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Rider briefings are a regular part of all our rides, whether it’s a weekday spin or a longer weekend route. We take the time to go over specific hazards and dangers, with a particular emphasis on current risks like damp roundabouts.

Finally, we capture crash statistics and review them regularly. We started recording crash data in 2017 and have since logged over 200 crashes. This information helps us identify patterns and understand the reasons behind crashes, which in turn allows us to take action to reduce risk.

All of this work is done by volunteers who are passionate about making our rides as safe as possible for everyone. But we also want to remind you that each of us has a responsibility to ride safely and be accountable for our own actions.

So the next time you’re out on a ride and hear your ride leader briefing about road conditions or obstacles, please pay attention and take heed. By working together, we can make our SPR rides safer and more enjoyable for all.

Perth City Criterium — We have to offer our thanks to Peel Districts Cycling Club, WestCycle, and AusCycling WA for putting on this inner city closed roads race! We loved it. Not to mention, Perth City Council and the Department of Local Government, Sports and Cultural Industries who contributed significant grant funding to enable the additional expenses

Well done to everyone that raced. Again, SPR had over 20 members racing.

We had lots of riders across the grades in both mens and womens, but it was the women who had podium success on the day. Well done!

We love your work 💚

  • B Grade – Corrie Johnstone 1st, Katrina McLennan 2nd, Rebecca Kelly 3rd
  • C/D Grade – Lauren Humphreys 1st, Claire Rapson 2nd, Jodie Chipper 3rd

Regretfully, we send out condolences to Toby and Elar – both looking well positioned going into the last lap before coming down. Recover well gents.

Full results are here and check out the photos below.

B Grade Podium
C/D Grade Podium
SPR Women in action
C Grade Men
Smiles before the pain
More smiles
💚
Ready
Mmmm

 

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2023 — It’s back!! After some scheduling issues last year, we are pleased to announce that SPR’s epic adventure – available in both imperial and metric editions – has been locked in for Sunday 2 April 2023.

Read our previous blog post or sign up on EntryBoss now, and choose from two all new courses.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2023

This is a fundraiser for the club and helps support our Ride Leader Program that both members and non-members enjoy 365 days a year.

  

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

1. PDCC Summer Criterium Race 5 & Club Championship

2. WCMCC Wangara Criterium

 

From the Ride Coordinator — From time to time while riding or racing in a group, you may hear someone call, “Hold your line!”. This means stay in the same part of the lane throughout the corner or roundabout. Take a group with two lines of riders and a roundabout with two lanes. Assume you’re going straight on; the left line needs to stay hard left (outside) all the way round, so that the right line of riders is not forced into the right (inside) lane. Similarly, going around a left hand bend, the right line needs to stay wide to give the riders in the left lane enough space to avoid the kerb.

Stay safe!

Saturday 18th March

Sunday 19th March

Monday 20th March

Tuesday 21st March

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

Wednesday 22nd March

  • Ride starts Raffles bike path at 5:30am
  • Rides start at Coode St carpark at 10:00am
    • Midweek Transitional – <returns March 2023>

Thursday 23rd March

Friday 24th March

Ride Routes 11 – 17th March

Good evening all,

Sending a shoutout Team SPR (officially “SPR Mixed”) who are heading off on the Canteen ride this weekend. They have done a huge job on the fundraising front (ranked 4th at last count so I here!). At this stage, it is just the riding part left to do. Enjoy the weekend!

Read below for a roundup of the MCC State Criterium Series from last weekend, including the results of the series. Some excellent results for SPR members in both women’s and men’s.

For those in Perth this weekend, it’s too late to enter, but I encourage you to come down on the day for the Perth City Criterium Championship – closed road racing in the City of Perth does not happen very often and should be a great event to watch!

A reminder also that our AGM is coming up on the Saturday 25 March (with voting running online the week prior). This means nominations close Friday week (17 March). If you are interested in getting involved, have a read of the blog post here, and get in touch (myself, Tom or any of the Committee).

And a reminder to register for our upcoming Water Tower Challenge. All the details below.

And not to mention, we have ride routes.

Daniel

MCC Criterium and State Criterium Roundup — Well done to everyone that raced last weekend in Midland’s State Criterium Series race. SPR had over 20 riders in this mix.

Congratulations to John Ingham and Gilbert Moore for picking up a podium spots D Grade – 1st and 2nd respectively. For the women, congratulations to Manou, landing 1st and Nikki Pursell 2nd in D Grade. And finally, well done to Amy Currie taking out 3rd in C Grade.

Kudos one and all 💚.

And with this race being the final in the series, we are proud to announce the SPR members who placed in the series overall:

  • D Grade – Manou 1st, Nikki 2nd and Belinda Evans 3rd
  • C Grade – 2nd, Amy Currie
  • D Grade – 1st, John Ingham and 2nd, Gilbert Moore
  • C Grade – 1st, Phil Barnes

 

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2023 — It’s back!! After some scheduling issues last year, we are pleased to announce that SPR’s epic adventure – available in both imperial and metric editions – has been locked in for Sunday 2 April 2023.

Read our previous blog post or sign up on EntryBoss now, and choose from two all new courses.

SPR Water Tower Challenge 2023

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.

  

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

1. Perth City Criterium Championship

2. WCMCC Kewdale Criterium

 

From the Ride Coordinator — Autumn is upon us, meaning that working lights are necessary for those early morning rides.

Group rides rely on many things to make them enjoyable. Two of those items are: good communication and smooth roll throughs (i.e. no surging).

We have good weather again this weekend. Enjoy.

Saturday 11th March

Sunday 12th March

Monday 13th March

Tuesday 14th March

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

Wednesday 15th March

  • Ride starts Raffles bike path at 5:30am
  • Rides start at Coode St carpark at 10:00am
    • Midweek Transitional – <returns March 2023>

Thursday 16th March

Friday 17th March