Great Victorian Bike Ride

On Saturday 25th November 14 Year 10 and 11 boys got on the bus to start the 8 hour journey across to Orbost to join the Great Victorian Bike Ride. We arrived in Orbost just in time to set up our tents before a short downpour of rain. As the rain stopped we checked out our campsite and had a quick look around Orbost, grabbed our dinner and set in for the night. Mr. Sanders went to the staff briefing to find out the details for the first day of riding on Sunday. Though it was the shortest ride in distance with just 58km to cover, we were told it was the hardest day by far with some long and steep ascents to be made.

We headed out in the morning after an early start (campers up and about at 5:30am) and we rode on some beautiful quiet roads tracing along next to the snowy river. It wasn't long though till we hit some decent hills. It was tough climbing but the exhilaration of flying down the other side (riding over 60km/h) almost made it worth it. At the end of the first day the realisation of what we had signed up for had well and truly set in. We came in to camp in Buchan and again set up our tents just before the rain hit. When the rain hit we rode to see the Buchan caves however could not gain access and so instead had a cold swim in the Buchan pool which had water straight from the snowy river running into it. Was great recovery for sore and cramping legs.

Day two of riding was a long but easier 84km to Lakes Entrance. Was again a bit hilly but more rolling hills which were more forgiving on the legs. However close to Lakes Entrance we had two of the steepest hills we had come across which saw many riders walking to get over the peak. Really fun downhill section into Lakes Entrance and camp. Unfortunately Harrison Foster and Jordy Rasmussen missed the downhill ride as Harrison had his second puncture of the day right at the peak and the boys walked the last 4km into camp. We again went to the local pool, which this time was a warm indoor pool with spa and sauna which was a nice way to finish the day.

Day three was a 78km ride to Paynesville. It was again a bit hilly with a couple of really testing sections but also had some long flat sections with a mostly tail wind for the day. The last flat section into Paynesville was into a strong headwind and the boys put physics into action as they created a long line in behind each other to reduce the drag and help each other to the finish.

When we arrived at camp we checked the weather forecast for our last day of riding and with 20 - 80mm of rain and howling wings expected Mr. Sanders made the call to finsih early and head back to Rochester. This turned out to be the right call as organisers said in the morning that no riders under 18 where able to hit the road.

The ride was a huge challenge for all riders physically and mentally and the boys did an amazing job of staying positive, encouraging each other and pushing it to the end each day. Each night at camp was fun and energetic and some very competitive games of spike ball were played, which was amazing after such tough days on the bike.

All riders should be super proud of their efforts!