The 2014 Great Divide Gran Fondo isn’t all that far away so
it’s time to start getting into shape.
Starting very early from Calliope on Saturday
the 6th of September, we travel a total of about 240klm to Rockhampton with
many stops along the way. The trip heads out to Biloela for breakfast before eventually
ending up in Rockhampton.
The pace isn't crazy and will average around 26klm for the entire ride; of course if we have a tailwind it picks up and a headwind it slows down. At first the slower pace is very easy but by the end of the day for some it will feel like 40!
The pace isn't crazy and will average around 26klm for the entire ride; of course if we have a tailwind it picks up and a headwind it slows down. At first the slower pace is very easy but by the end of the day for some it will feel like 40!
This will be the 3rd running of the ride and I’m
sure all those that have done the Fondo previously would agree it’s a great day
out; a bitter sweet experience for some lol.
For those thinking there is no way I can do that distance, if you train enough you will surprise yourself. The training for the ride doesn’t require 200k training rides every weekend but you will have to do some regular rides over 100k to make sure you’re a little seasoned; especially your butt!. You don't have to pull turns on the front and you won’t be asked to, you can sit in and stay out of the wind the whole ride if you want. If the speed is getting to you we will also slow a little to get you to the next stop. Generally we ride as a bunch to look after the weaker riders but if numbers allow the group will split and regroup at each stop, it’s more a call on the day scenario. While it may sound a great idea to have 2 groups from the get go we do have to consider the support vehicles as well. As the ride gets closer and numbers clearer a call will be made.
Speaking of support vehicles we do have them and they will carry your drinks and food for you but if you have a significant other it's good if they can come along for the trip, they will have a great time. The recovery/support teams from the last couple of years have had plenty of fun along the way.
We generally stay the night in Rocky with a group dinner at Sizzlers. If you're interested get in contact with me.
For those thinking there is no way I can do that distance, if you train enough you will surprise yourself. The training for the ride doesn’t require 200k training rides every weekend but you will have to do some regular rides over 100k to make sure you’re a little seasoned; especially your butt!. You don't have to pull turns on the front and you won’t be asked to, you can sit in and stay out of the wind the whole ride if you want. If the speed is getting to you we will also slow a little to get you to the next stop. Generally we ride as a bunch to look after the weaker riders but if numbers allow the group will split and regroup at each stop, it’s more a call on the day scenario. While it may sound a great idea to have 2 groups from the get go we do have to consider the support vehicles as well. As the ride gets closer and numbers clearer a call will be made.
Speaking of support vehicles we do have them and they will carry your drinks and food for you but if you have a significant other it's good if they can come along for the trip, they will have a great time. The recovery/support teams from the last couple of years have had plenty of fun along the way.
We generally stay the night in Rocky with a group dinner at Sizzlers. If you're interested get in contact with me.
Mark
mark.ruthenberg63@gmail.com
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