Altona’s Brett Marlow is gearing up for his 24th consecutive RACV Great Victorian Bike Ride and camping holiday.
Entries are open for the 527-kilometre ride, which will go from the Grampians to the Great Ocean Road from November 26 to December 4.
Mr Marlow, 65, rides from Altona to Footscray five days a week and takes out his “good bike” for a serious ride on Sundays.
He has been clocking up about 300 kilometres a week in training for the great ride, on which he loves catching up with friends.
“It’s just so much fun,” he said. “I’ve done so many of them, I know an awful lot of people on the ride. I just enjoy the cycling – it’s just a whole heap of fun. This particular ride along the west coast is the best one that they do of all the rides. It’s pretty spectacular.
“My advice for riders coming on the ride for the first time is to have your bike set up properly and ensure the gears are all working.
“It also helps if you remember where you pitch your tent. One year I’d had a bit too much to drink and needed the security guard to help me find my tent.”
About 5000 cyclists from Australia and overseas, aged from under 10 to above 80, are expected to take part in ride options covering three, five and nine days.. An early bird saving of $100 ends August 3.
Details: www.greatvic.com.au
