Female cyclists know they can work just as hard – if not harder – than their male counterparts, but they will soon be given the chance to conquer one of the North East’s most challenging rides while supported exclusively by other women.
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The High Country Women's Cycling Festival is the first female-only event of its type in Australia.
It will be based out of Bright on the weekend of April 20-22, including the challenging ride up Mount Buffalo, with experienced ride ambassadors providing lead-out support, riding tips and encouragement.
Organiser Michelle Armstrong said some women interested in cycling events had been put off in the past because the participants were mainly men.
“The feedback we’re hearing is that women love the idea of riding with other women and having a go at a ride they might not otherwise,” she said.
“The pattern shows that if women ride, they’re good role models for kids and the family.”
Almost 40 people have registered since the festival was launched in December – including from the Border and as far away and Darwin – and organisers hope that will grow to about 150.
Riders will not be racing, but encouraged to complete the course in their own time.
The weekend will also feature bike mechanics workshops, ride technique sessions, yoga classes, lycra fashions on the field, North East food and coffee, ride recovery, and “after parties” at Bright’s pubs and breweries.
Albury’s Hannah-Leigh Wolki is one of 100 female cyclists to tell their stories of conquering the seven peaks of Victoria’s Alpine Resorts.
The 22-year-old started with Mount Buller then had conquered all seven mountains within seven weeks.
“There are so many benefits to cycling, which is why I love it so much. From a health point of view, I am the fittest I have ever been and have lost eight kilograms recently due to cycling,” Ms Wolki said.
“I love the descents, the views are incredible at every mountain and you get to enjoy it more on the way down especially with the elated feeling of completing the climb. It was a great opportunity to see parts of my home country that I’ve never seen before.”
VicRoads has thrown its support behind the festival as part of its focus on cycling safety.
“Road safety is our highest priority and this event aligns with our values around safe cycling routes and encouraging drivers to stick to safe passing distances,” North East regional director Nicki Kyriakou said.
For more information or to register for the High Country Women's Cycling Festival, go to www.hcwcf.com.au.