Cycling Through Life With Pedal Power

David Thomson - Long running member of Pedal Power

Since being a Melbourne boy in the 1950’s cycling has always been a special part of my life.

Transporting me to interesting places under my own power has made cycling a special experience for me, not just about getting from A to B, but about making each ride a unique journey in itself.

As an early member, what has kept you coming back to Pedal Power?

Over the years, my cycling has included commuting; touring in Australia and many overseas countries (Le Raid Pyreneen, and Le Route Des Grand Alpes in France bring back special memories); Audax, including the Fleche Opperman, 370km, and the Alpine Classic out of Bright, 200km; racing, including Track and Road; MTB including the Munda Biddi Trail in WA, the Mawson in SA, and the Tasmanian Trail; in addition to social rides, including those with Pedal Power.

To help support cycling, I have been a member of Pedal Power for over 40 years. I remember years ago trying to promote MTB when it was in its infancy by leading off-road rides each month, plus leading Sunday road rides from Dickson before the current Sunday Wanderers were established.

At 82 now, I am still active in Pedal Power and my personal target is to cover at least 200km each week on my unassisted bikes.

What has been the greatest change you have witnessed within Pedal Power, and what would you change for the future?

For Pedal Power, the greatest change I have seen is its transition from a purely volunteer organisation operating out of the old Griffin Centre to one having a professionally paid staff. And with it, the Pedal Power insurance scheme, which I think every cyclist should avail themselves off. Also, the increasing popularity of e-bikes which are playing an important role in getting more people into cycling. Pedal Power now has over 5,000 members, making it the largest participation sporting club in the ACT.

The only changes I would wish to see would be more publicity given to Pedal Power, as it plays such an important part in the ACT community. Also, I do miss the bi-monthly posted magazine.

What was one of your most treasured memories with Pedal Power?

Looking back, I remember Pedal Power’s 21st birthday with a cake at the Dickson Tradies in one of the trams. I always remember the Pedal Power Bike Museum in Dickson as being an important hub for the Club. It had many benefits, including a focus for Pedal Power members, publicity, and a valuable tourist attraction for the ACT.

So, there we are. After 50 years of service to members and the community, Pedal Power is still rolling along strongly.