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2010 Whittlesea Challenge Review
 2010 Whittlesea Challenge The third annual Whittlesea Challenge was held on Saturday May 29th. On Saturday May 29, CycleSport Victoria, with terrific support from the City of Whittlesea, conducted the third annual Whittlesea Challenge. Although the day began with some light rain and fog, it didn’t deter the always enthusiastic cycling community from participating in very large numbers. The field looked terrific in the official event jerseys which were produced by Ventou. Participants came from all across Victoria to take part in the either the 50km or 110km courses, with both providing different degrees of difficulty with challenging climbs, but plenty of reward for effort with picturesque scenery providing a terrific backdrop. Commencing from Walker Reserve, the event was opened by City of Whittlesea Mayor Mary Lalios, and riders were delighted to hear from Event Ambassador Maddison Hammond and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Melbourne Executive Officer Paul Mathewson prior to commencement. Along the course, riders were able to refuel with fresh fruit and fruit cake, lollies, water and TORQ products and take in some of the sights and scenery at strategically placed Refreshment Stops located at Flowerdale, Broadford and Wandong. These stops were staffed by very enthusiastic and friendly volunteers from Yea Rotary, Broadford Lions and Wandong-Wallan Lions Clubs respectively, with mechanical assistance also provided at the stops by Goldcross Cycles. The difficult Strath Creek Climb was made a little less daunting with entertainment provided throughout the climb by bagpiper Daryl Boyle and encouragement and motivation from the Strath Creek Devils! Upon completing the ride, cyclists enjoyed the event village at Walker Reserve with a host of sponsor and event vendor marquees where they could purchase the official event merchandise in addition to live music, terrific food and beverage options and massage facilities providing a perfect end to a fantastic day of cycling. CycleSport Victoria would like to thank the City of Whittlesea, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Melbourne, Ventou, Goldcross Cycles, TORQ Australia, the volunteers and all those involved for making the 2010 Whittlesea Challenge such a wonderful success. Make sure you keep an eye on ths website for information about the next CycleSport Victoria Recreational event soon with remaining events on the 2010 calendar including the Mount Macedon Challenge (November '10) and Scotty's Ride (December '10). Particpant Feedback
“I just wanted to take the chance to congratulate the CycleSport Victoria team on an extremely well-coordinated and organised event. It was my first Whittlesea Challenge, and first CycleSport Victoria event, and I must say I thought it was fantastic. The course itself was challenging, and the scenery beautiful, giving me a new appreciation of the Whittlesea region, despite having lived in the City of Whittlesea all my life. The event volunteers were all approachable and friendly, and the refreshments provided at each of the refreshment stops were plentiful and beneficial, not to mention the benefit of having the Goldcross Cycles mechanics on hand to assist with any troubles. You did a fantastic job, and I'm already looking forward in anticipation of the next big event. I'll also certainly be back for the 2011 edition of the Whittlesea Challenge.” Dave, Coburg North “The course is extremely scenic and predominantly hard, however I thoroughly enjoyed it. I thought that the organisation was better this year, parking was an improvement, the Torq product at the Refreshment Stops was enjoyable and all the cyclists appeared to be out for an enjoyable day, with not too many egos. “What a magnificent event the Whittlesea Challenge was in tough conditions. I though the event was fantastically run & will definitely, definitely be spreading the word & doing again! Well done!” Michael, Melbourne “I would just like to congratulate you on a great Whittlesea Challenge. This was the first organised cycling event I have participated in I took part in the short course. “I have done a lot of organised rides over the years, and I will definitely take note of CycleSport Victoria events in future. Stopping traffic at the major intersections, variety of food at the stops, Goldcross mechanics, motorbike marshals, and the devils on the climb were all friendly and made the experience great. Well done!” Tom, Blackrock “I have entered many cycling and running events, and this was one of the best run, and certainly best catered for event I have done. The refreshment stop catering and volunteers were first class and I could not speak highly enough of them and the organisation behind it all. The course was well chosen and the police, marshals, signage and paramedics were all visible. Thank you for a great event and see you next year.” Fiona, Macleod “The event had all the aspects of a Tour de France. The devils and bagpiper on the Strath Creek climb added to the atmosphere and made you feel like a pro. I will be spreading the word about this event and will be back in 2011 for sure!“ David, Violet Town
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