Cyclists up for a challenge

INVERLOCH hosted the Bass Coast Cycle Challenge on Saturday. Despite some challenging weather conditions, 400 cyclists took part in the charity event.

This year, the event included the 121-, 85-, 53- and 40-kilometre road rides and the newly introduced 100-kilometre gravel ride. 

“The 121-kilometre ride is always our most popular event, but we have had a good turnout for the gravel ride,” event director Gavin Slavin said.

“We wanted to bring something new into the event and everyone is getting into the gravel riding at the moment.”

Starting and finishing in Inverloch, the gravel route included Mt Misery – featuring a tough 12 per cent incline, the Bass Coast Rail Trail, the desal trails via Williamsons Beach, and the Wonthaggi Conservation Reserve.

Cyclists returned through Cape Paterson and back into Inverloch.

Gavin said a lot of locals and familiar faces took part in Saturday’s event, with other cyclists travelling to Inverloch to be involved.

Funds from the event will go towards two charities – the L2P program and RYDA.

“RYDA is our main program,” Gavin said.

“It is a youth driver awareness program. It educates out Year 11 and 12 students in all the secondary schools about the different things to look out for when they are driving out on the road.

“For instance, it teaches them about stopping distances in the wet and dry, they get to design their own car and safety features, and they’ll bring in guest speakers who have been seriously injured in an accident to talk to the kids about some of the things they need to look out for.”

Funds are also donated to the clubs who volunteer their time on the day to ensure the event’s success. 

Gavin thanked those who make the event possible each year.

“We are lucky enough to have an awesome committee and wonderful volunteers,” he said.

“It’s all voluntary and everyone works really hard. I’m really proud and honoured to have them on board.”