But Rod Clutterbuck said it was the fun he had that saw him taking part 11 years on.

Wodonga was last week recognised for its contribution to the event with 193 residents taking part in the Port Phillip Bay ride over the past 19 years.

Wodonga Mayor Mark Byatt was presented with a piece of a bike, symbolising the event.

“I am proud to receive a portion of the ‘bay bike’ on behalf of local riders,” he said.

The council supports an active and healthy community, and cycling is a terrific way to achieve this.

“Wodonga has more than 80 kilometres of cycling and walking paths which link the city and the council continually works to improve these for residents and visitors alike.”

Bicycle Network Victoria Bupa Around the Bay event manager Michael Russell, who presented the bike piece to Cr Byatt, encouraged residents to get on board and celebrate the 20th Bupa Around the Bay in October.

The “bay bike” will be re-assembled and displayed at the Bupa Around the Bay festival in Melbourne, from October 19 to 21.

“As we lead up to the 20th year celebrations, the ‘bay bike’ is our way of publicly recognising Wodonga’s contribution to our historic event,” Mr Russell said.

Members of Albury-Wodonga Pedal Power, such as Mr Clutterbuck, have taken part in the event and have many fond memories.

However, Mr Clutterbuck admitted he had never heard of the ride before his brother took part in one.

“My brother had done it and I try to keep up with him,” he said.

This year will be his 11th ride which, for the serious cyclist offers 250km or 210km laps of Port Phillip Bay.

For those who haven’t got time to train, or are just starting and want a challenge there is the 135km ride from Geelong or a 100km ride from Sorrento to Melbourne.

For a more family-friendly outing there is the 50km ride which includes cycling over the Westgate Bridge twice.