174km
Oakey to Chinchilla
Spirits were high this morning after the triumph of a successful first day. With water bottles filled, sun cream (and no doubt layers of butt cream) applied, the crew rolled out for another glorious day of riding. With the wind at our tails the peloton found their rhythm and cruised along enjoying the beautiful farmland we were cycling through.
First stop of the day was at St Ruth’s where we indulged in all the baked goodies that were supplied by family and friends back home, highlights – Woolies Rum Balls (we crossed our fingers there were no RBT’s around) and Megan’s brownies.
From St Ruth’s we entered some more challenging territory, with gravel roads, roadworks and dodging potholes left by recent flooding of the Condamine River. However, the team were strong and still maintained a steady pace with mostly tail winds supporting us on the way.
As we drove through endless fields of cotton and sorghum, we got to appreciate what the rain has done for the area, particularly when we compare it back to the last ride in 2020 when it was so dry.
Today we received lot of support from visitors who drove out to give us a cheer and a wave along the roadside, giving those all-important energy boosts and moments of encouragement for the riders as we push towards the end of a 174 km day and for many starting to feel the effects of two days in the saddle. For 8 of our riders, it was the first time they have ever ridden the distance of 174km in a single day, achieving a personal best. Sending a huge congratulations to:
Cullum
Kathryn
Natalie
Patrick
Brian
Mick
Craig
Steve
Arriving at Chinchilla shortly after 2:30pm, nearly an hour ahead of schedule, was such a delight for the team, allowing them some much needed rest and recovery time – including a 2 x 2min dips into the ice baths, a RideWest ritual!
Highlights for Day 2:
Kate – having surprise visits from my sister and brother-in-law
Rod – Cruising along with favourable weather
Al – Celebrating with all the riders that reached their PBs today
Petrea – Watching the bonds form as a group and seeing everyone really coming together as a team
Woolie – Winning the early quadie in rose hill
Duge – Making such good time and arriving into Chinchilla so early.