Kit order closes midnight on Monday! Don’t forget that the stylish new SPR and SPR Chicks socks are available 🙂
If you are headed into R&D to try on kit please remember that the staff aren’t able to assist you with sizing…send a query to Mayeur direct. The sizing kit is held at R&D as a service to the club…there’s nothing in it for them, so if it becomes hard for them we may lose the opportunity. 😉
Today, we have another wonderful SEVEN story to share with you. This one comes from Nicki du Plessis, and is an inspirational read. Enjoy!
As you may have heard or read by now, SEVEN is a very special event. Not only does it offer many of the challenges any all-round cyclist can hope for, it also offers breathtaking vantage points and majestic views that stretch for miles. As I have often quipped to anyone that will listen, if offers very vivid glimpses of utopia – picturesque landscapes that one can only dream of.
Anyway, as I have probably used up all the poetic licence any cyclist worth their VO2 max can bear, SEVEN offers a range of challenges across 3 unique courses fondly referred to as THREE (approx. 50km and 1100m climb), FIVE (approx. 85km and 1700m climb) and SEVEN (approx. 124km and 3800m climb).
I entered THREE for the first time in 2020 without much training beforehand, and managed to finish the almost 52km route, including 1,020m elevation, in 4hrs and 7 minutes. I must admit it included several walking breaks, pushing my MTB up those pesky hills, but at least it gave me the opportunity to take in my surroundings, commiserate with other riders who were struggling with me and appreciate what preparation I will need if I wanted to attempt SEVEN one day…in the distant future…
This year I decided to enter THREE again with a mindset of not walking at all. In February, I started training cycling coach, Sarah Hunter, from Hunter PT, and together we worked on improving my power and making me stronger through a variety of indoor and outdoor, road and MTB cycling workouts. My husband (Herman) and I also visited Nannup a number of times in the lead up to the event to complete training rides on parts of the actual course – this was invaluable as I felt well prepared, not just physically but mentally too.
When race day finally arrived, we were greeted by a beautiful day – not too hot or too cold – just right as Goldilocks would say. As I had set myself the target of completing the event in under 4 hours I was somewhat disappointed when I reached the first hill and got off the bike to walk the last little effort – did I mention that I do take a while to warm up – that’s my excuse anyway!
Once the first serious ascent was out of the way I felt more relaxed and comfortable, and tried to make up for lost time by completing the descents as quickly as possible by relying on my Scott Spark’s trusty full suspension and just going for it – with a slight degree of caution of course!
When I reached the 32km mark, I was slightly disappointed when I cycled over Reveley bridge which signalled that I had exited the forest plantations and was now on my way back to Nannup. The worst of the hill climbing was behind me although I still encountered a few little short, shart “surprises” along the way – but as I was heading home I was focussed on completing the race in under 4 hours.
When I reached the single track, I realised I had clear air ahead of me and just tried to smash it out as fast as I could in order to reach the finish line. I am happy to report I finished in 3 hours and 17 minutes and 3rd female in my age group.
Next year I will be attempting FIVE, the 85km route, and who knows what 2023 holds… perhaps I will be ready to tackle SEVEN, after all as a Dad told his little girl when she asked how many hills were left, “it’s all downhill; except for the uphill bits!”
Photo credit: Race finish photo by Daniela Tommasi Photography.
Swan Valley Fondo – The Swan Valley Fondo is back as part of the WestCycle WA series, and coming up on Sunday 13 June 2021.
Gather a few like-minded cyclists and create a team or just jump in yourself.
Read the full post here, and reach out to Carol on the Community Development email address (comdev@southperthrouleurs.com.au) if you have any questions.
Kit Order Closing Soon – The current order is closing soon – midnight on 7 June to be specific.
Check out all of our kit, including the new range of socks, with a special mention to the SPR Chicks socks.
And for those of you waiting on an order delivery, you should have received an email letting you know that orders have arrived and are available for pickup at R&D Speedshop (unless you had it posted, of course).
From the Ride Coordinator – Chapeau to those 8-9 brave souls who ventured out into the weather last Saturday for the main ride (you know who you are 👏👏 ) You were probably still cleaning the gunk off the bike by the time the second front hit on Sunday but that doesn’t take away from your adventurous spirit.
This week it’s looking a lot better so hoping those that are yet to brave a chilly morning or anyone spending too much time as part of the couch peloton for the Giro/Dauphine double, can come riding with us this week.
I looked back on when we last scheduled this ride (Alexander Drive) and it was end of June 2020 as we were climbing out of the national lock down and getting back to our “COVID normal”. Whilst lots has changed in the world since then, it appears 12 months on, we are still literally a breath away from lockdowns and/or potential worsening health so we should appreciate the opportunity to ride when we can.
Speaking of such, this weekend the club is providing a plethora of choices to ride starting with the monthly Saturday Hills ride (note start at 6.30 from the car park) and finishing with the long weekend public holiday ride on Monday. It’s a great state we live in, so let’s ride to celebrate it. Whatever ride you choose to do this weekend make sure it’s a safe one, enjoy it and be thankful we can share it with others.
Saturday 5th June
Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
For this week’s blog, we thought we would do something a little different. In an effort for you to get to know your new club president better, Claire Tyrrell has posed a series of questions.
Stay tuned for more profiles of fellow committee members and other SPR riders.
Name: Daniel Harvey Position:Club President Bike: Giant TCR
1. What brought you to cycling and to SPR?
In my thirties, I found I needed to do more consistent work to stay fit and healthy. I had started doing multisport races with friends (Anaconda anyone?), but wanted something regular to work on fitness. I’m a bit of an extrovert by nature and found (find) group riding to be just the thing.
2. How long have you been with the club?
Since the beginning 🙂
I started riding on a shop ride that was the precursor to SPR. I think it was Jonny and Lennie that first introduced me (I’d been riding a Sunday ride with them for a year or so at that time).
3. What is your most memorable experience on the bike?
Hard to pinpoint a most memorable experience, but highlights would include the early Cyclo Sportif’s that I participated in with the club as well as my first Tour of Margaret River.
4. Why did you choose to become president and what do you hope to achieve during your tenure?
I’ve always been a believer in community, and I know what the SPR community has added to my life over the years, particularly in difficult times.
Taking on the president role is really just an opportunity to contribute in a new and slightly different way. SPR has done amazing things in its ten year history so far, but I know there are opportunities for my contribution to make a difference. For example, as the club membership has grown, we have attracted new and different members, and it is important to make sure the club continues to meet members needs as the membership changes and evolves. Safe and fun group rides are central to what draws lots (most?) of our members, but there are lots of things connected to that that I would like to see done well.
5. Can you tell me a bit about your life off the bike?
I am married, and with my wife Ainsley have three now adult children. I work in IT, running a local SME with several partners out of West Perth. We’ve been around for just on 20 years, so we’re doing something right. I love technology and still find immense satisfaction from the work I do.
We just moved house (now in Bayswater – not that I’ve ever lived in South Perth!) and are slowly working through the remaining boxes and finding places for everything.
Social ride starting at the Narrows Bridge (city side) and ending in Kings Park at Fraser’s restaurant for coffee. This is an approx 25km distance, 25km/hr easy pace, no drop ride. End of ride coffee is the key priority
This is an easy pace ride, conversational pace .. no puffing required ! A ride leader will give a short briefing to each group before we set off.
Saturday Start Locations – As announced last week, we are moving back to the older and more condensed layout in the carpark at Coode Street for the start of the ride.
This makes communication and organisation that little bit easier.
The Rules – just a reminder that it isn’t quite business as usual – As the past week’s lockdown has shown us, it is definitely not business as usual just yet. Please keep in mind our social distancing and personal hygiene:
The virus can spread via human contact, so minimise the amount of touching between people and each others bikes/helmets etc.
No spitting, snotting or sneezing within the group. If you need to, move to the back of the group, but please look behind you to make sure that it is clear of traffic. That is all traffic, not just bikes. We don’t want some dash-cam footage of someone blowing their nose on a car.
Personal hygiene becomes very important in the spread of the virus so make sure that you either wash your hands whenever you can or carry a small container of hand sanitiser. Limit your exposure to common surfaces (chairs, tables) and don’t be sharing items.
SafeWA registration – Remember that for many locations and venues contact registration is mandatory. If you want to sit down for a coffee you must register your details at that premises. There are 2 ways to do this, register on a paper form, or scan a QR code on an app. So, how do I get the app? Download the WA Government free app – SafeWA and sign up as an individual. – Android users click here – Apple phone users click here
Thursday Group 3 & 4 – The last few weeks we have been formalising and supporting the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday. SPR Thursday has a reputation of being a hard and fast ride and the size of the first group today was a good indication of it’s popularity. However, we also want to provide an opportunity for people to develop and progress through the ranks, so to speak. As such the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday now have ride leaders assigned to them to help guide people. The expected average speeds for the groups are 34k/hr and 30 k/hr or less average, respectively, so you can make a call as to which will suit you best. Organically developing rides to provide for what the needs of the group is what has contributed to the growth of the club. This is just another step along that path.
Our commitment to Core Values – We are a diverse club that made a point early on of committing to a number of core values to which we have built everything upon. These are – Safe, Inclusive, Organised & Social. It is under these values that we want all club interaction to occur, whether on the road or in cyberspace. Please read the previous post so you understand what we as a club, expect from you as members.
From the Ride Coordinator – Hope everybody enjoyed Ewen Street hill last weekend. We also enjoyed pretty good riding conditions on Saturday morning as the threatening skies never really caused us problems for our main ride. Alas, this weekend, unfortunately it looks like those same conditions that hit us on Saturday afternoon are forecast to come in from Friday afternoon so I think our run of great riding conditions are going to come to an end this weekend.
But of course there are still some of us that don’t mind riding in conditions that are akin to a Belgium winters morning, so for all of you out there, this Saturday’s ride route is one of those that likes to take the quieter, perhaps more safe, roads on what is likely to be a wet morning. We’ve decided to schedule up Cresswell for all who are keen to ride. If you do ride, be extra careful if it’s wet. At least the coffee will taste extra special back at the Dome when you finish.
Saturday 29th May
Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
If you stayed on for coffee after any SPR ride in recent months, you would have heard whispers of SEVEN.
“What size tyres are you running? How heavy is your bike? Will you ride a cyclocross bike or a mountain-bike?”
The anticipation was palpable.
On Sunday, the day finally came – and there was no talk of tyres or frames. We just rode our bikes.
A 45+ SPR contingent took part in the Seven, Five and Three rides – and every single one of them did the club proud.
It was the third time I’d embarked on this epic event (though the second year I opted for Five), and it was as spectacular as ever. Weather conditions were ideal for a day out on the bike, and that’s all I tried to see it as.
Yes, I climbed more than 3000 metres and pedalled across 125km of gravel roads, spending about 7h30m on my bicycle, but at the end of the day I was doing what I loved.
I met some awesome, like-minded people and caught up with some old faces, I had emotional ups and downs (including two crashes), but I was happy to be out there.
My happiness was amplified as I rolled into the finish, to see that SPR’s Kate Bonner had claimed third woman overall, Vanessa Johnson came third in her division and Deb Kempe took out first female 60+.
Michael Bonner had an awesome ride to achieve first male 60+ and Kate Nelligan got first in her age group in Five.
Sharing in the triumphs and tribulations of my green comrades was something special – and it was great to see how many members signed up to Seven as the event grows.
I covered the very first Seven in 2018, when the event attracted about 250 riders – compared to an impressive 1000 plus on Sunday.
It seems the gravel adventure will continue to grow, with rumours that accommodation for next year’s event has sold out already.
I certainly plan to take part in next year’s Seven. Who’s with me?
Tour of Margaret River Information Session – After the ride this Saturday we are holding the first of our information sessions regarding the Tour of Margaret River 2021.
The club is seeking expressions from riders at all levels. And don’t worry if you haven’t raced before – it does not matter how fast you go!
If you are interested, curious, or just have questions, drop past Dome at 9am, and talk to Steve or one of the Committee.
Giro D’Italia Dinner – SPR members enjoyed a night out at East Victoria Park’s Bella Rosa café for this year’s Giro d’talia night.
Forty of us packed the function rooms and chatted all things life and cycling, on the rest day of the Italian grand tour.
An Italian dress theme was encouraged, and Shirley Vine stood out from the crowd in her pink attire.
Stay tuned for the next social event during the Tour de France.
Saturday Start Locations – As announced last week, we are moving back to the older and more condensed layout in the carpark at Coode Street for the start of the ride.
This makes communication and organisation that little bit easier.
Bike Maintenance Session – Check out this post for an invite to SPR women who want to learn the basics when it comes to fixing and maintaining their road bike.
The Rules – just a reminder that it isn’t quite business as usual – As the past week’s lockdown has shown us, it is definitely not business as usual just yet. Please keep in mind our social distancing and personal hygiene:
The virus can spread via human contact, so minimise the amount of touching between people and each others bikes/helmets etc.
No spitting, snotting or sneezing within the group. If you need to, move to the back of the group, but please look behind you to make sure that it is clear of traffic. That is all traffic, not just bikes. We don’t want some dash-cam footage of someone blowing their nose on a car.
Personal hygiene becomes very important in the spread of the virus so make sure that you either wash your hands whenever you can or carry a small container of hand sanitiser. Limit your exposure to common surfaces (chairs, tables) and don’t be sharing items.
SafeWA registration – Remember that for many locations and venues contact registration is mandatory. If you want to sit down for a coffee you must register your details at that premises. There are 2 ways to do this, register on a paper form, or scan a QR code on an app. So, how do I get the app? Download the WA Government free app – SafeWA and sign up as an individual. – Android users click here – Apple phone users click here
Thursday Group 3 & 4 – The last few weeks we have been formalising and supporting the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday. SPR Thursday has a reputation of being a hard and fast ride and the size of the first group today was a good indication of it’s popularity. However, we also want to provide an opportunity for people to develop and progress through the ranks, so to speak. As such the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday now have ride leaders assigned to them to help guide people. The expected average speeds for the groups are 34k/hr and 30 k/hr or less average, respectively, so you can make a call as to which will suit you best. Organically developing rides to provide for what the needs of the group is what has contributed to the growth of the club. This is just another step along that path.
Our commitment to Core Values – We are a diverse club that made a point early on of committing to a number of core values to which we have built everything upon. These are – Safe, Inclusive, Organised & Social. It is under these values that we want all club interaction to occur, whether on the road or in cyberspace. Please read the previous post so you understand what we as a club, expect from you as members.
From the Ride Coordinator – OK. Have the ladies and gentlemen at the BOM got the forecast right? Your immediate reaction is likely to be “well probably not” but some early modelling on a Thursday afternoon suggests we might be able to slip in a ride in the morning before the rain sets in. Cross your fingers that they are right this time around.
If they do get it right then those that go out will attempt one of the most feared rides in our repertoire – Ewen St aka “Spewin Ewen” – nicknamed for the amount of effort that you might put in or perhaps how you feel at the top. I’m not sure it deserves such a fearsome reputation. It’s a cracker of a hill don’t get me wrong – but the elevation across the ride isn’t our worst. Perhaps I just haven’t tried hard enough to enter the red zone? If you haven’t done it before, come see for yourself and you be the judge. The view from the top looking back is good, but it’s the downhill on the other side that’s better 😀. If you choose to ride, make it safe and enjoyable. Hope to see you for coffee if the rain holds off.
Saturday 22nd May
Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
If you only do one road race this year, the Tour of Margaret River should be it.
The event, entering its 13th year, captures everything I love about road riding.
You work in teams of six, so there’s no room for selfish riders or too much ego, among some of WA’s most picturesque roads around Nannup and Balingup. The event changes slightly in format each year, but in 2020 featured three team time trails and two road races over three days.
Before you switch off and think the event is just for elite riders – think again.
TOMR caters for riders at every level, from those dipping their toe into the world of racing to professionals.
And that’s the beauty of it – it’s a chance for Perth’s cycling community to converge, to share a laugh on and off the bike away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Organisers Rebecca Cotton and Brendon Morrison and their army of volunteers do an amazing job of drawing support for the event – in the past it has attracted global cycling superstars Annemiek van Vleuten and Marrianne Vos.
Personally, I have ridden this event three times, and each experience was markedly different. In 2017, I rode it with the club – with Rebecca Kelly, Kate Bonner, Kathryn Dines, Ali Ramm and Leigh Outschoorn. We worked well together to finish second in our division – being pipped by Veris by just seconds in the final team time trial.
For me, the camaraderie of the club was a highlight. Cold cokes under the SPR tent, the volunteers in green and my ever-smiling SPR buddies – it’s a blast!
This year’s tour is from 5-7 November, with provisional stages already released.
The club is seeking expressions from riders at all levels. And don’t worry if you haven’t raced before – it does not matter how fast you go!
Contact admin@southperthrouleurs.com.au to express your interest in the event. We will be posting more, and aiming for an information session soon, but we would love to hear from you.
Last chance to take us up on an invitation to join us for our Giro D’Italia Dinner. Last chance because the dinner is next week, and also because we have sold nearly all of the tickets, so if you’re interested … get in quick!
Saturday Start Locations – As announced last week, we are moving back to the older and more condensed layout in the carpark at Coode Street for the start of the ride.
This makes communication and organisation that little bit easier.
Bike Maintenance Session – Check out this post for an invite to SPR women who want to learn the basics when it comes to fixing and maintaining their road bike.
The Rules – just a reminder that it isn’t quite business as usual – As the past week’s lockdown has shown us, it is definitely not business as usual just yet. Please keep in mind our social distancing and personal hygiene:
The virus can spread via human contact, so minimise the amount of touching between people and each others bikes/helmets etc.
No spitting, snotting or sneezing within the group. If you need to, move to the back of the group, but please look behind you to make sure that it is clear of traffic. That is all traffic, not just bikes. We don’t want some dash-cam footage of someone blowing their nose on a car.
Personal hygiene becomes very important in the spread of the virus so make sure that you either wash your hands whenever you can or carry a small container of hand sanitiser. Limit your exposure to common surfaces (chairs, tables) and don’t be sharing items.
SafeWA registration – Remember that for many locations and venues contact registration is mandatory. If you want to sit down for a coffee you must register your details at that premises. There are 2 ways to do this, register on a paper form, or scan a QR code on an app. So, how do I get the app? Download the WA Government free app – SafeWA and sign up as an individual. – Android users click here – Apple phone users click here
Thursday Group 3 & 4 – The last few weeks we have been formalising and supporting the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday. SPR Thursday has a reputation of being a hard and fast ride and the size of the first group today was a good indication of it’s popularity. However, we also want to provide an opportunity for people to develop and progress through the ranks, so to speak. As such the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday now have ride leaders assigned to them to help guide people. The expected average speeds for the groups are 34k/hr and 30 k/hr or less average, respectively, so you can make a call as to which will suit you best. Organically developing rides to provide for what the needs of the group is what has contributed to the growth of the club. This is just another step along that path.
Our commitment to Core Values – We are a diverse club that made a point early on of committing to a number of core values to which we have built everything upon. These are – Safe, Inclusive, Organised & Social. It is under these values that we want all club interaction to occur, whether on the road or in cyberspace. Please read the previous post so you understand what we as a club, expect from you as members.
From the Ride Coordinator – So many of the regular riders with SPR will be heading down Nannup way this weekend for the epic gravel/off road event SeVen. If ever you wanted to set yourself a challenge, it is this event with the signature event covering 125kms, over 3000 meters of elevation and 10 categorized climbs over the distance. Phew, I’m exhausted just thinking about it as I’m typing. Of course there are options for shorter courses but whatever the choice it’s a real achievement to finish. So to all the SPR members who are attempting it this weekend (& there are quite a few), good luck to you all and we hope to see you riding back in our groups next week 👍🏻
For those wanting a good hit out around Perth this Saturday morning, whilst not quite as epic, we still have a little challenging ride up Hale and Ridgehill Rds for you with a tail wind finish along Guildford Rd. Remember to familiarize yourself with the route. All it takes is a click on the link below and a quick scan of the route to put you in the picture and maximize your own safety by knowing the route. Please don’t put your own safety in other peoples hands by hoping the rider next to you knows where they are going because you don’t. As ride leaders we see near misses happening all the time and all we are trying to do is make sure you have an enjoyable and safe ride. Something that’s a bit difficult if you’re skidding along the road surface because you’ve clipped a wheel or someone has cut you off. So familiarize yourself with the route and we can enjoy a coffee together at Dome afterwards.
Saturday 15th May
Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
It seems like we’ve been here before. Take 2: Transitioning out of lockdown the repeat edition. But you won’t hear me complaining, I am just glad to be able to ride this weekend, mask not required. Benara Road anyone??!!
In reading through the Premier’s announcement, and the details of the significant easing of restrictions, the part that stood out for me most was this: “People will be able to have up to 100 people in their homes, up from 30.” I don’t know about anyone else, but I’ve rarely if ever had 30 people over, let alone 100 – even when SPR Breakfasts were held at Peter’s house I don’t think we got to 100 bikes in Peter’s garage 🙂
A couple of things to mention; first up, we would love for you to join us for our Giro D’Italia Dinner. We’ve sold nearly half of the tickets, so plenty of space for you to come along, but keep in mind that Cafe Bella Rosa has a hard limit on space so we cannot increase the number of tickets once they have sold out.
Secondly, congratulations to everyone who raced in the 78th Tom Lowry Memorial Road Race held Saturday just gone by Collie Cycle Club. We had a huge turnout from the club, with 36 riders from the club racing across the grades. We achieved podiums in Women’s A Grade (congratulations Teneal Attard and Sarah Fowler!), Women’s B Grade (congratulations Larissa Boon and Di McAuliffe!), Men’s D (Darren Wallis!) and Men’s A (Mat Wardynec making the extended podium!) with strong performances across the board.
Check out the full results here and here. And there are some amazing photos here thanks to PB Photography.
Saturday Start Locations – As announced last week, we are moving back to the older and more condensed layout in the carpark at Coode Street for the start of the ride.
This makes communication and organisation that little bit easier.
Bike Maintenance Session – Check out this post for an invite to SPR women who want to learn the basics when it comes to fixing and maintaining their road bike.
The Rules – just a reminder that it isn’t quite business as usual – As the past week’s lockdown has shown us, it is definitely not business as usual just yet. Please keep in mind our social distancing and personal hygiene:
Whilst we are during the transition out of lockdown, masks are required indoors and outdoors if you cannot social distance.
The virus can spread via human contact, so minimise the amount of touching between people and each others bikes/helmets etc.
No spitting, snotting or sneezing within the group. If you need to, move to the back of the group, but please look behind you to make sure that it is clear of traffic. That is all traffic, not just bikes. We don’t want some dash-cam footage of someone blowing their nose on a car.
Personal hygiene becomes very important in the spread of the virus so make sure that you either wash your hands whenever you can or carry a small container of hand sanitiser. Limit your exposure to common surfaces (chairs, tables) and don’t be sharing items.
SafeWA registration – Remember that for many locations and venues contact registration is mandatory. If you want to sit down for a coffee you must register your details at that premises. There are 2 ways to do this, register on a paper form, or scan a QR code on an app. So, how do I get the app? Download the WA Government free app – SafeWA and sign up as an individual. – Android users click here – Apple phone users click here
Thursday Group 3 & 4 – The last few weeks we have been formalising and supporting the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday. SPR Thursday has a reputation of being a hard and fast ride and the size of the first group today was a good indication of it’s popularity. However, we also want to provide an opportunity for people to develop and progress through the ranks, so to speak. As such the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday now have ride leaders assigned to them to help guide people. The expected average speeds for the groups are 34k/hr and 30 k/hr or less average, respectively, so you can make a call as to which will suit you best. Organically developing rides to provide for what the needs of the group is what has contributed to the growth of the club. This is just another step along that path.
Our commitment to Core Values – We are a diverse club that made a point early on of committing to a number of core values to which we have built everything upon. These are – Safe, Inclusive, Organised & Social. It is under these values that we want all club interaction to occur, whether on the road or in cyberspace. Please read the previous post so you understand what we as a club, expect from you as members.S
From the Ride Coordinator – Now that those strong winds we’ve experienced across the Summer and early Autumn are abating, it opens up a few more of our ride options to choose from – or you might think? It’s often an interesting jigsaw to pull apart and put back together for the chosen route every week. There’s many variables to consider, including member preference, when was stage last time we rode the route, wind, weather conditions, sun in your eyes etc etc. Right now though, our biggest challenge to a lot of our routes are road works. I mentioned it a few weeks ago when we had the unexpected closure of Thomas street and the safety concerns that such an event can have on the ride. Well this week’s route is another of those that is impacted by road works. This time it’s the corner of Coode and Whatley due to the metro net construction around Bayswater Station. So as you crest the brow of the hill on Coode keep an eye out for any disruption or congestion ahead caused by the work that is going on because this can be a fast little stretch heading towards the Whatley intersection. Hopefully there are no issues but at the moment, it might be better to “expect the unexpected” again and play it a little cautious around there. We hope to see everyone back safe for coffee.
Saturday 8th May
Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
The Premier has tonight announced what is hopefully the final transition out of lockdown. This is good news, as is the report that there has been no community transmission.
This means that we can ride. And we can have coffee afterward. Very good news.
There are a few things to keep in mind though, please. Bring a mask – we are required to wear masks indoors and if we can’t social distance outdoors for the next week. Social distancing may be necessary at Coode Street for the start of the ride and at least some of the time at Dome for coffee (required indoors but not outdoors in the alfresco area).
Toby has confirmed that Dome will be open.
It’s been a hard week for CBD hospitality businesses, and Dome has been no exception, so come along and make sure Saturday morning bucks the trend 🙂
Saturday Start Locations – As announced last week, we are moving back to the older and more condensed layout in the carpark at Coode Street for the start of the ride.
This makes communication and organisation that little bit easier. Keep in mind that with the transitional arrangements, if you can’t adequately social distance you will need to wear your mask as we gather before the ride starts.
Bike Maintenance Session – Check out this post for an invite to SPR women who want to learn the basics when it comes to fixing and maintaining their road bike.
The Rules – just a reminder that it isn’t quite business as usual – As the past week’s lockdown has shown us, it is definitely not business as usual just yet. Please keep in mind our social distancing and personal hygiene:
Whilst we are during the transition out of lockdown, masks are required indoors and outdoors if you cannot social distance.
The virus can spread via human contact, so minimise the amount of touching between people and each others bikes/helmets etc.
No spitting, snotting or sneezing within the group. If you need to, move to the back of the group, but please look behind you to make sure that it is clear of traffic. That is all traffic, not just bikes. We don’t want some dash-cam footage of someone blowing their nose on a car.
Personal hygiene becomes very important in the spread of the virus so make sure that you either wash your hands whenever you can or carry a small container of hand sanitiser. Limit your exposure to common surfaces (chairs, tables) and don’t be sharing items.
SafeWA registration – Remember that for many locations and venues contact registration is mandatory. If you want to sit down for a coffee you must register your details at that premises. There are 2 ways to do this, register on a paper form, or scan a QR code on an app. So, how do I get the app? Download the WA Government free app – SafeWA and sign up as an individual. – Android users click here – Apple phone users click here
Thursday Group 3 & 4 – The last few weeks we have been formalising and supporting the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday. SPR Thursday has a reputation of being a hard and fast ride and the size of the first group today was a good indication of it’s popularity. However, we also want to provide an opportunity for people to develop and progress through the ranks, so to speak. As such the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday now have ride leaders assigned to them to help guide people. The expected average speeds for the groups are 34k/hr and 30 k/hr or less average, respectively, so you can make a call as to which will suit you best. Organically developing rides to provide for what the needs of the group is what has contributed to the growth of the club. This is just another step along that path.
Our commitment to Core Values – We are a diverse club that made a point early on of committing to a number of core values to which we have built everything upon. These are – Safe, Inclusive, Organised & Social. It is under these values that we want all club interaction to occur, whether on the road or in cyberspace. Please read the previous post so you understand what we as a club, expect from you as members.S
From the Ride Coordinator – Just a short note for me this week as the conditions should be similar to last week (albeit a little cooler) so we will run the same routes as we were going to do last weekend.
Couple of things to note:
It is the first Saturday in the month so we will be running the short hills on Saturday option that we missed last month due to Easter. Ride leaves Coode Street 30 mins earlier at 6.30am.
Last weeks note about the intersection of Scarbs Beach and Loftus is worth another mention. This routes goes straight across onto London Street, it does not turn left onto Scarbs Beach. Please familiarise yourself with the route so you know what to do there and avoid any confusion which can lead to accidents.
We often take it all for granted (given what happened last weekend) so please enjoy your riding when you can. Whatever you choose to do, do it safely.
Saturday 1st May
Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
The government released the formal (legal) direction regarding this week late yesterday, and the Committee has given it a careful read. There seems to be some confusion, but our read is that the 20-person gathering limit does not apply for sporting activities – provided that we do not have spectators.
On this basis, we will proceed with group rides this week.
The Committee will continue to monitor the situation and should advice change to the contrary we will advise as soon as possible. In the interim, stay safe and keep an eye out for further updates.
Important: Please ensure that you bring a mask to the ride to wear whilst waiting at the start and finish of the ride.
See you out on the bike.
Daniel
For those interested in a little light (!) reading:
Saturday Start Locations – Back in 2020 the club made a decision to spread ourselves out in the carpark on a Saturday morning, to make social distancing a bit easier. With things slowly returning to near normal (capacity crowd at Optus Stadium anyone?) activity and traffic in the Coode Street car park is picking up and there we are less likely to attract criticism for gathering together.
For those reasons the Committee has decided to return to a more condensed assembly in just the first two rows of the car park. The new/old assembly areas are in the image to the right.
We’ll gather in these two rows again on Monday for the Public Holiday ride…the last one for a few months.
Bike Maintenance Session – Check out this post for an invite to SPR women who want to learn the basics when it comes to fixing and maintaining their road bike.
The Rules – just a reminder that it isn’t quite business as usual –As we progress through WA’s phased approach to reopening, how the club interacts within itself and the wider community will also change. Rightly or wrongly, the lack of community transmission in the state has meant that a lot of the social distancing rules have disappeared. As such we want to streamline what the requirements are from a club perspective. Basically there are 3 main things we want people to keep in mind.
The virus can spread via human contact, so minimise the amount of touching between people and each others bikes/helmets etc.
No spitting, snotting or sneezing within the group. If you need to, move to the back of the group, but please look behind you to make sure that it is clear of traffic. That is all traffic, not just bikes. We don’t want some dash-cam footage of someone blowing their nose on a car.
Personal hygiene becomes very important in the spread of the virus so make sure that you either wash your hands whenever you can or carry a small container of hand sanitiser. Limit your exposure to common surfaces (chairs, tables) and don’t be sharing items.
SafeWA registration – Remember that for many locations and venues contact registration is mandatory. If you want to sit down for a coffee you must register your details at that premises. There are 2 ways to do this, register on a paper form, or scan a QR code on an app. So, how do I get the app? Download the WA Government free app – SafeWA and sign up as an individual. – Android users click here – Apple phone users click here
Thursday Group 3 & 4 – The last few weeks we have been formalising and supporting the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday. SPR Thursday has a reputation of being a hard and fast ride and the size of the first group today was a good indication of it’s popularity. However, we also want to provide an opportunity for people to develop and progress through the ranks, so to speak. As such the group 3 and 4 rides on Thursday now have ride leaders assigned to them to help guide people. The expected average speeds for the groups are 34k/hr and 30 k/hr or less average, respectively, so you can make a call as to which will suit you best. Organically developing rides to provide for what the needs of the group is what has contributed to the growth of the club. This is just another step along that path.
Our commitment to Core Values – We are a diverse club that made a point early on of committing to a number of core values to which we have built everything upon. These are – Safe, Inclusive, Organised & Social. It is under these values that we want all club interaction to occur, whether on the road or in cyberspace. Please read the previous post so you understand what we as a club, expect from you as members.S
From the Ride Coordinator – With so many roads now impacted by road works (you gotta love the public works stimulus programme) we find that many of our more popular ride routes are affected in one form or another. Last weekend we had the unexpected closure of Winthrop Ave to install a new bridge but it was great to see so many riders “going with the flow” and assisting the ride leaders to navigate around. This weekend we could also expect the unexpected with both routes on Saturday. Transition will head down Hay Street Subiaco which is experiencing some road narrowing around Rokeby and last time the main ride headed to Karrinyup Rd, there was also some impact from the shopping centre redevelopment. Reason for highlighting is that you may experience something different to what you were expecting and we are sharing the road with drivers who may also be unfamiliar so it’s good to keep your wits about you.
Whilst talking about keeping your wits whilst riding, our main ride on Saturday would be up there for the most frequent cases of near misses at the intersection of Loftus Street and Scarbs Beach Rd. The Karrinyup Rd route this weekend heads STRAIGHT ACROSS that intersection and onto London Street. Please DO NOT look to turn left onto Scarbs Beach Rd, otherwise you may be another statistic on the SPR accident data base. We’ve said it plenty of times before, it pays to look at the ride route before you go. That’s particularly important this week. See you all safely at coffee!
Saturday 24th April
Ride starts under the Narrows (cityside) at 5:30am
! A ride leader will give a short briefing to each group before we set off. 
