26 Oct 22 | By pp-admin | Events, News Wheel
“T’was the night before Christmas… Fitz’s
And all through the Capital
Not a cyclist was stirring
Not even for carbs
Their bikes were polished and tyres pumped with air
As they dreamt of Fitz’s and a day that was fair”.
Are you ready? Steve Ryan is.
He’s lining up for the 130km Corin Challenge this year on his much-loved and ridden Specialized Turbo Creo eBike.
Steve usually rides three times a week – weather permitting… which let’s face it, these days is not a given! One of the things that have kept him on track is being part of an online group in Strava created by French guides for a cycle tour he and his wife, Mary, had done. That way, he is ‘training’ with people all around the world. “I’m always trying to finish the week in the top 2-3 riders” he confesses.
What’s he hoping to get out of Fitz’s this year? “I appreciate the personal challenge of Fitz’s and my aim in 2022 is to complete the ride, and in a reasonable time” he says.
Fitz’s is also giving him good preparation for participating in the 2023 Tour Down Under. If he has a successful Tour, he’s thinking he’ll front up again for Fitz’s and tackle one of the longer distances next time.
Steve’s top tip for riding Fitz’s? “Get an eBike”, he says with a laugh. More seriously, he points out that having the right equipment – whatever that is for you personally – is essential for getting the most out of a challenging ride like Fitz’s. But most importantly, Steve’s advice is: “Enjoy … and ride carefully”.
On Saturday afternoon, Steve is volunteering at Stromlo, so if you’re picking up your rider pack, make sure to say hello.
And to Steve and all our countless volunteers doing everything from organising the routes, to packing food and water and manning aid stations and checkpoints, a very big thank you. Fitz’s cannot happen without your efforts.
We wish Steve and all our Fitz’s riders all the best for a great ride and completion of their personal challenge this Sunday.