As part of the Bowral Classic’s partnership with Drew Lindsay Real Estate, we’re excited to be able to bring you another house of the week from the beautiful Southern Highlands. As riders will see when they cycle through the region in October, the rolling hills and verdant vistas make the area one of the most stunning places to live in all of Australia. Plus, being only a 2-hour drive from the Sydney region, it’s an ideal location from which to balance city and country.
Lazer Century Helmet – Bowral Classic Review
Bowral Classic and Classics series originator James Yaffa recently took on the task of road-testing a premium road helmet from Lazer, the Century. How did he enjoy using the special centenary edition from the historic company? Read on to find out.
The Bowral Classic is proud to be partnering with the iconic Lazer helmet brand for the 2019 edition of Australia’s premium Gran Fondo event.
Lazer was founded in Belgium way back in the year of 1919 – yes … they are six years older than Bicycling Australia’s parent company Yaffa Media!
History is important – you can really sense the level of passion and understanding this company has for the customer. The helmets are still designed at the company’s head (no pun) office today, and Lazer completely understand their responsibility to the industry and sport as a whole.
The Lazer Century helmet … a truly impressive offering.
With innovation, safety and design constantly advancing, our friends at Lazer are very much the driving force behind front line helmet development and that’s clearly obvious when holding a Century for the first time.
Gut feelings and first impressions are just about always spot on and the Lazer Century certainly has the look and feel of a top quality helmet.
Without hesitation I had the pleasure of testing this latest incarnation and my findings are consistent with worldwide praise for the Lazer Century.
Striking Design, Innovative Features
First and foremost this helmet features MIPS – that’s Multi-directional Impact Protection System – a unique internal cradle system that allows rotation between the outer casing of the helmet and the scull.
The Lazer Century features the MIPS internal protection cradle system.
The design is striking. Let’s face it we all like a good-looking and stylish helmet with all the comfort and safety features.
While the southern states of Australia are now heading into relatively cooler riding conditions, I embraced the impressive ventilation and closure options offered with the Century.
In early morning and cooler conditions I simply rotated the ventilation holder on top of the helmet (they call it ‘Twistcap). This impressive option is just too easy to adjust, a simple twist and the magnetic button just locks it in nice and snug.
Some helmet brands have delivered slide format ventilation options but over time I have found they move up and down which can be annoying.
Whilst I’m looking for comfort here it’s the aero advantage that will really appeal to Gran Fondo riders preparing for our Bowral Classic. With multiple ventilation points you don’t feel overwhelmed with rising temperatures. The Century offers more a feeling of a smoothness, continuity and comfort.
In warmer conditions I opened up the ventilation – a process of simply lifting the cover, rotating it 180-degrees, and allowing the in-built magnets to lock the slide into position. Again all riders have different needs and the Century offers this in spades.
The helmet features a reversible and magnetic top panel to allow for ventilation or closed vents.
Incorporated Safety Light
Perhaps the biggest innovation with this offering is the integrated light set at the rear of the helmet.
I am obsessed with lights and general rider safety and have always used a rear light option for my helmets. In fact, it’s been years since I haven’t ridden with a rear light on the helmet night or day … for me its always on!
So when I saw that Lazer Century had the integrated light option I was immediately impressed and genuinely excited. The integrated rechargeable LED light is easy to remove and delivers just the right amount of auxiliary light with 3 different flash options.
In preparing for a major Gran Fondo like The Bowral Classic everyone has different needs and requirements in being 100% ready for the big day. Should you be searching out a helmet that over-delivers on design, safety, and comfort then I strongly recommend taking a closer look at the Lazer Century.
Along with the other cutting-edge offerings from Lazer, the Century will be on display at the Lazer stand at the official Bowral Classic Village … we look forward to seeing you there!
Lazer Century
RRP $299
For more info www.lazersport.com
BOWRAL CLASSIC HOUSE OF THE WEEK!
So, what have we got this time? Well, if you like natural light and plenty of room, this is the one for you…
FOX GLEN – IDYLLIC RURAL RETREAT IN ROBERTSON…
Perfectly located at the end of a tree-lined laneway, offering absolute peace & privacy, a stunning family retreat on 30 beautiful acres positioned to take full advantage of the expansive & spectacular rural views. Designed for entertaining inside & out, with ample accommodation, spacious living areas, pool & tennis court. Only minutes from the Robertson township & with easy access to Sydney & the coast, Fox Glen offers an enviable lifestyle.
Head to Drew Lindsay for more.
Ride4Rare with the Bowral Classic and Rare Cancers Australia
Fresh from its success organising the inaugural Parliament2Peak ride, Rare Cancers Australia (RCA), a Bowral-headquartered charity, is calling on riders to Ride4Rare during the Bowral Classic, Sunday 20th October here in the Southern Highlands.
Rare Cancers Australia is an official charity partner for the Bowral Classic. Ride4Rare asks all keen riders out there to sign up and agree to fundraise for a charity that supports 52,000 Australians diagnosed each year with a rare, or less common cancer. Riders who join the Ride4Rare team will have the opportunity to purchase a Rare exclusive jersey. Registrations are now open at www.rarecancers.org.au/ride4rare
Who are Rare Cancers Australia? And What Is A Rare Cancer?
RCA is a charity whose purpose is to improve awareness, support and treatment of Australians with rare and less common (RLC) cancers. RCA was established in 2012 by Richard and Kate Vines after experiencing first-hand the challenges of a rare or less common cancer diagnosis and realising what little support and treatment options there was available to Australian patients.
What’s a Rare Cancer?
By definition Rare cancers are defined as those with an incidence of less than 6 per 100,000 Australians per annum and Less common cancers are defined as those cancers with an incidence between 6 and 12 (inclusive) per 100,000 Australians per annum and
As distinct from common cancers (breast, prostate, bowel, lung and melanoma) there is very little patient support offered to rare and less common cancer patients, and these cancers impact Australians of all ages, claiming lives each day:
• One Australian child every four days;
• One Gen Y every day;
• 10 Gen Xs every day; and
• More Australians, aged 60-69, than any other cause of death
RCA’s work supports patients and carers through practical and emotional support, advocacy, research and campaigning for policy change to give patients greater access to the medicines they need. The charity seeks further funding to support its great work.
Leading the Ride4Rare team is RCA’s Community Engagement Manager Zac Hulm. Zac is the President of the Southern Highlands Cycling Club, the creator and organiser of the Parliament2Peak ride – a two-day cruise & climb ride from Canberra to Thredbo.
For more information contact Zac Hulm M: 0410-435-148 E: [email protected] or go to www.rarecancers.org.au/ride4rare
Bowral Classic survival guide: Top 5 ride tips
1 – Ride Like Clockwork
Aim to ride at similar times during your training to the time you’ll be riding at Bowral. This will start at to ensure that your body is in sync when it comes to the big day. Take advantage of weekend mornings to do this, and try and fit in as many pre-work rides as you can during the week, especially leading up to the event.
2 – Eat Breakfast
Any pre-race excitement may prevent you from feeling hungry, but eating breakfast is extremely important on race day because the right right amount and type of food is vital to keeping you going during the ride. Eat 2-4 hours before you’re due to start, fueling yourself with plenty of fluids, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Why not try three slices of wholemeal toast, with natural peanut butter and a banana as your pre-ride feast?
3 – Start slow… or slower than you might want to!
Regardless of what distance you’re taking on in Bowral, the first fifth to a quarter of your ride might feel so easy that it’s tempting to pick up the pace, but don’t push yourself too hard! Stick to a comfortable pace throughout the first half of the ride and you can start to develop speed in towards the back half of the course (we appreciate this can be easier said than done!)
4 – Sleep, glorious sleep!
It’s key that you get plenty of rest in the week leading up to the ride, but it’s especially important that you get a good night’s kip the night before the ride. Avoid eating too late and partaking in too many of the local liquid refreshment and let yourself wind down a little earlier than you normally would to help you to relax into a natural sleep.
5 – Do a dress rehearsal
If possible, head down to the Southern Highlands region and try to do one big ride before the event itself. Feeling comfortable with the roads and the type of riding will give you that extra bit of confidence come the big day. Plus it won’t hurt the training effort either!
Also, make sure you don’t by any new shoes, socks or other key clothing too close to ride day. The last thing you want is blisters and chafing distracting you when you’re rolling through the beautiful hills and pastures that make the region so special.
The Body Mechanic – Why you really need a bike and body fit
The Bowral Classic is proud to be partnering with the guys at The Body Mechanic with the simple message – bike fits are for everyone!
Whether you are new to cycling or you have been riding for years, a bike fit is essential to your comfort, performance and efficiency on the bike. In the Bowral Classic, you will be on the bike for a long time. To make the ride an enjoyable day, you need to be comfortable. A properly fitted bike means that you will be in a riding position that lets you ride for a long time at a high intensity and stay comfortable the entire time.
An expert Bike Fit can also help to prevent overuse injuries that often result from an improper position. Knee pain, lower back pain and numb hands are three of the most common repercussions we see of a poorly fitted bike. The exact ideal bike position varies a lot from person to person, depending on factors like age, style of riding, and physical attributes like flexibility and core stability. At the Body Mechanic we fit your body to the bike as much as the bike to your body! Unlike a standard bike fit, we assess your body’s biomechanics to identify any areas which need to be addressed.
Tight hamstrings, for example, mean you shouldn’t be reaching too low or too far forwards to the bars. Based on this biomechanical screening process we provide you with a personalised exercise program to correct any weakness or imbalance. This will ultimately make you a stronger rider.
Your bike fitting session with The Body Mechanic will include:
- On-and-off the bike biomechanical and injury assessment.
- Adjustment of your riding position taking into account your biomechanical traits, your riding goals and your skill level.
- Bike fit report including key biomechanical findings, your bike measurements and any recommendations to optimise your fit further.
- Individualised exercise program intended to improve your riding efficiency and minimise injury risk.
- Pre- and post-bike fit video with analysis and summary of the changes made.
The Body Mechanic team specialise in bike and body fits. Our professional experienced cyclists, fitters and sports physio’s understand what you need to make your ride great. All entrants in this year’s Bowral Classic receive 25% off a Complete Bike and Body fit by The Body Mechanic. This special offer is available when you book The Complete Bike and Body Fit, which includes an expert Bike Service. The Complete Bike Fit will take approx. 2 hours. Full details of the offer are included below.
We recommend coming in as soon as possible so you get the maximum benefit in your training and avoid injury in the lead up to your race.
Call us to take advantage of this offer on 02 9955 5842.
Deloitte – Leading the way in workplace wellbeing with Bowral Classic
The Bowral Classic is delighted to be partnering with Deloitte to help promote wellbeing in the workplace. These days, companies are realising the importance of employee health and wellness as part of overall work-life balance, and professional services firm Deloitte is a leading light in this area. At Deloitte, they recognise the value of creating a healthy, balanced, safe working environment for their employees, focusing on physical, mental, social and financial wellbeing. We sat down with Deloitte Australia Partner David Haynes to find out more about the firm’s innovative approach and why he’s so excited to be teaming up with the Bowral Classic in 2019.
NC: Hi, David. It’s a pleasure to meet you. First of all, tell us why wellbeing at work is so important for you at Deloitte?
DH: I’m a very keen cyclist (my kids say obsessed) as it provides both the physical benefits of being fit and healthy along with social interaction and spending time outside. I’m a big believer that to achieve your personal best in the workplace you need to have the right balance of personal wellbeing, and I love working at Deloitte because it holds similar values.
Deloitte is a people and relationship business. Providing a work environment that allows our people to achieve their personal best is critical as it enables them to provide a high quality and impactful service to our clients. As an organisation, we operate in an environment that can be demanding and fast-moving at times, so it’s very important that we support and encourage our people to achieve that balance from a wellbeing perspective.
NC: What specific schemes have you introduced at the company to try and get the best out of your employees?
DH: We have an official Wellbeing at Deloitte program that focuses on four areas of wellbeing to support, improve and enhance the overall wellbeing of our people. These four areas are physical, mental, social and financial wellbeing.
Our people are supported to prioritise their physical wellbeing needs, which in turn benefits their mental wellbeing and overall health. Annually, we run a national ‘Step Up Challenge’ competition, encouraging our people to participate in teams and walk a minimum of 10,000 steps each day. We’ve received great feedback and engagement in this competition, with it not only having physical benefits but also positively impacting social and mental wellbeing. This competition has continued its impact with people permanently changing their habits, implementing ‘walking meetings’ or simply using the stairs instead of the lifts!
Another initiative recently implemented for the first time is ‘Financial Wellbeing Month’, launching financial wellbeing as one of our new focus areas. It gave our people the opportunity to address financial concerns or make future financial plans through education sessions with SMEs.
These initiatives are just two examples of how we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment at Deloitte, where our people have a sense of belonging and can be their best selves; and feel supported, recognised and safe to address any issues without stigma.
NC: Burn-out at work is becoming a more and more common occurrence across Australia – why do you think that is and what should be done on both a national and local level to try and stop it happening in the first place?
DH: At Deloitte, we recognise that workplaces are significantly different to how they once were. So, as an employer, we also need to adjust the way we operate to suit the needs of our future workforce. Across our firm, we’re committed to enabling flexible work arrangements that support individuals and teams. Moreover, we find flexible working has the potential to uncover a number of benefits for our people and for our organisation – in terms of satisfaction levels, productivity and outcomes!
We encourage our people to find what works best for them, because what works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for another. A culture of inclusion also helps make flexibility a reality. If team leaders learn what’s important to their people, they can work together to help implement the best arrangement for them and the team.
NC: How have your staff responded to your focus on work-life balance?
DH: I personally value Deloitte’s commitment to a variety of wellbeing initiatives. I know we’ve had great engagement across the firm in our various wellbeing initiatives, such as the Step Up Challenge and Financial Wellbeing Month, as I mentioned before. We also have many people make the most of flexible work arrangements, according to what suits them best.
Internally, we actively promote different work arrangements through storytelling, setting an example for others about what’s possible. We’ve had people share their story about starting work early and leaving early to still make training sessions during busy periods; others who work from home one day a week; and those who have more formal arrangements through flexible parental leave.
On the note about parental leave, we’ve had an incredible response to the recent announcement of our improved parental leave policy. We’re very proud to be a leader in this space. The changes really focus on creating a shared, flexible and family-friendly solution for our people in raising their children. It also allows our people to pursue and develop their careers with flexibility and purpose, while caring for their growing families.
NC: How does an event like the Bowral Classic tie into Deloitte’s focus on workplace health and wellness?
DH: The Bowral Classic ties into our focus on supporting our people to prioritise their physical wellbeing needs to support their mental and overall health. We’re proud to partner on this event as we strive to lead by example and make an impact that matters in our community. As a cycling enthusiast myself, I’m very excited about this event providing the opportunity for our people to train and participate together.
NC: How many riders do you hope to get up to ride with us in Bowral, and what are they looking forward to about the ride?
DH: We’re hoping to have around 50 of our people and clients attending the ride. I think I can speak for everyone and say we’re looking forward to some great riding in the beautiful Southern Highlands!
Bowral Classic House of the Week!
We’re thrilled to announce Drew Lindsay Real Estate as an official partner of the Bowral Classic. Drew Lindsay is a brand synonymous with offering a unique & personalised service in the Southern Highlands, and have been pioneering the real estate market in the region since the early 1930s.
Each newsletter we will showcase the very best Southern Highlands real estate on offer to our riding community through the Drew Lindsay House of the Week.
Patchway – Burradoo’s most beautiful home…
Set within over 2 acres of exquisite parkland gardens on Burradoo’s finest street, an elegant home of great presence. With its light-filled & magnificently proportioned rooms, including 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms & a spectacular conservatory, Patchway will have limitless appeal for our most discerning buyers. A real rare opportunity.
Head to Drew Lindsay for more.
Support disabled kids’ passion for cycling with Freedom Wheels and the Bowral Classic
The Bowral Classic is thrilled to announce Freedom Wheels as one of our official Charity Partners for the 2019 event.
Freedom Wheels gives kids with disabilities, like Avalon above, their very first bike.
Can you imagine watching your siblings ride a bike while you sit in your wheelchair? For many of us, getting on a bike is a rite of passage in Australia.
It’s a milestone with a wobbly start but often in a short space of time you’re off and riding with the wind in your hair and sun on your face to start that life-long love of cycling.Not all of us have the same start.
For many kids who have a disability, they usually start out by watching their siblings, often from their wheelchair. The excellent news is a group of volunteers got together and created Freedom Wheels to give all kids the chance to ride a bike.
Every Freedom Wheels bike changes a life, but $1,000 is needed to get a child riding. The charity relies on kind, considerate and active people just like you to help raise the funds needed to build them. That’s why Freedom Wheels is asking you today to join the ‘Freedom Wheelers’ for the Bowral Classic and help kids waiting for a bike.
Freedom Wheels helps kids with physical activity, positive mental health, social inclusion, and gives them a sense of pride and independence while also learning different skills. Currently they have 163 kids on our waiting list, but you could help change that! By joining our Freedom Wheelers, you’ll have the motivation of knowing your ride is making a real difference.
Freedom Wheels will help and support you; sending you motivational stories, connecting you to prize draws and giving you hints and tips on the best way to fundraise.
For more information and some inspirational success stories here, head to freedomwheels.org.au/stories/
Where to stay for the 2019 Bowral Classic
The Southern Highlands region, through which riders will cycle at the 2019 Bowral Classic, is one of the most stunning places to visit in Australia. As a result, accommodation options book out fast, so here’s some advice on some of the best areas and places to stay to get you ahead of the game.
Bowral
Bowral, the starting point for the Bowral Classic, is the largest town in the Southern Highlands, and as a result has a large variety of places to stay for people on any kind of budget. However, due to this, it’s also likely to be the most popular place for riders to stay due to its proximity to the start line and Event Village. Described as the perfect country escape, Bowral is a true gem just 90 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Sydney.
Milton Park Country House Hotel and Spa
Fancy a bit of luxury to help ease those weary leg’s after your Classic ride? Well, Milton Park is the one for you. Set atop a secluded hill in the south-east corner of the town, the heart of the hotel is a grand mansion, built at the turn of the 20th century by the Hordern Family of retail and pastoral fame. Stunning views over the region are matched by gourmet cuisine and relaxing gardens, filled with Elm, Oak and Weeping Beech trees. Timeless elegance and comfort meets great riding – what a combination!
Berida Hotel
Located in the heart of Bowral, the Berida Hotel is ideal if you want to combine a bit of time on the fairways with your time on the bike. Originally built as a home in 1925, and located just moments from the main street of Bowral, the hotel offers a range of rooms and is just across the road from the Bowral Golf Club. Set in landscaped grounds, guests can also enjoy the use of two tennis courts and a heated indoor pool… just in case the winter decides to linger on the ride weekend.
Mittagong
Just on the north-east side of Bowral, the town is recognised as the gateway to the Southern Highlands from Sydney. The area is also home to a number of wineries and cellar doors, and is perfect for bush walking.
The Old Bank Hotel
Charming and beautiful, the Old Bank offers quaint and comfortable rooms that are all individually decorated and named after the local area and era of the building. Local farmers Barbara and Warwick Wainberg transformed the old Commercial Banking Company building in the main street of Mittagong in 2016, and still retains the old bank vault, which has been converted into an unusual wine cellar. Just a warning, though, don’t try and move the one tonne vault door… before or after a few glasses of cab sauv! The luxurious features include plush lounge rooms – the perfect place to prepare for your Classic ride and the ideal place to sit back and recover after.
Motel Melrose
If you’re looking for something central and affordable, the Motel Melrose is a great option. Within short strolling distance of the main street, Motel Melrose is a well-appointed place from which to base yourself for your Bowral Classic experience. The retro rooms are clean, comfortable and the staff are super friendly. The motel offers three room types – double standard, family room standard and twin room standard.
Berrima
Much smaller than Bowral and Mittagong but no less beautiful, the leafy village of Berrima is full of stunning colonial sandstone buildings, quaint shops and pretty cafes. The village is also widely recognised as being the best preserved Georgian village in mainland Australia. Located just ten minutes west of Bowral, Berrima is the perfect place to get away from it all while still being conveniently located just 7km from the Event Village.
The Loch
Up the hill to the north of Berrima is The Loch, which has been transformed from an old stables building into a stunning accommodation option. Vibrant Sydney chef Brigid Kennedy has designed four unique rooms all named after Scottish towns, each with an en suite and a captivating rural view, and guests can even forage for fresh herbs in the chef’s garden too! Plus, after a big day on the bike, you can curl up in the evening with a book in the cosy lounge area.
Berrima River Reserve Camping
For those really wanting to get back to nature there’s the River Reserve Camp Ground. Located adjacent to the Wingecarribee River and just five minutes walk to the Historic Berrima Village, this is perfect for riders that want to keep things simple for their Bowral Classic experience. Plus, at only $17.50 per night, per site, you’ll have plenty of money left over to enjoy all that the Event Village has to offer!
For more information and to book, head to Destination Southern Highlands and Visit NSW and download the official Bowral Classic Visitors’ Guide.
2019 Bowral Classic Officially Launched
Bicycling Australia is delighted to announce the official launch of the 2019 Bowral Classic, Australasia’s premier Gran Fondo ride, which will take place on the weekend of the 19th and 20th of October.
2019 will mark the 4th edition of the Bowral Classic, which is set to be bigger and better than ever this year, with an expected 3,500 riders rolling through uniquely picturesque Southern Highlands towns like Robertson, Fitzroy Falls and Berrima.
The ride has grown exponentially since 2016, when 3,000 intrepid cyclists lined up for the first running of the event on Bong Bong Street, and has since become a major fixture on the Australian cycling calendar.
The Bowral Classic offers four course options to suit every kind of rider – the 35km Social Classic, 90km Rouleurs Classic, 120km Challenge Classic and ‘the beast’, the 175km Maxi Classic.
Cyclist’s Paradise
The Southern Highlands has been known for generations as a haven for cyclists. Quality roads, endless route options and a picture-postcard backdrop of lush green rolling hills make riding the Bowral Classic a uniquely special experience.
James Yaffa, event organiser and passionate cyclist, said Bowral is hard to beat. Having grown up in the region, he knows how special it is. “We are just as excited in our 4th year as we were in our first. Bowral and the surrounding towns are simply the ultimate escape. Our loyal riders keep coming back to enjoy all the delights that are on offer, the Bowral Classic is much more than just the ride!
The Bowral Classic is now a leading Gran Fondo Event for the Southern Highlands region and Australia, we are extremely proud of the event that it has become and thank our riders, partners and key stakeholders for making it such a great weekend!”
Destination New South Wales
The Bowral Classic is thrilled to again be partnering with Destination New South Wales, the State’s tourism and major events agency.
With colourful tulips, culinary experiences and creative flair, the charming town of Bowral in the Southern Highlands is the perfect country escape. Discover delicious restaurants and wineries, splendid gardens and cricket legends, all only 90 minutes’ drive, or a two-hour train journey, from Sydney. There’s a number of great things to do in Bowral, beyond the Bowral Classic, including bushwalking and fly fishing. Go to visitnsw.com to plan your Southern Highlands adventure.
The Bowral Classic is also thrilled to announce partnerships with industry giants such as Bianchi and Shimano to help boost the event.
Early Bird Registrations Open Now
Registrations for the 2019 Bowral Classic are open now. The Early Bird period will run until Sunday, 14th April, so get in early to save and also receive a free jersey worth $115 if you register to ride the Rouleurs Classic, Challenge Classic or Maxi Classic. What’s more, during Early Bird, riders doing their third Bowral Classic will receive a special Third Year Rider Jersey, and riders doing their fourth will get a Bowral Classic & Velopac branded RidePac worth $50.
Charity Focus
Aside from being an unrivalled festival of cycling, the Bowral Classic also allows riders to give back to those less fortunate than themselves. So far across its three years, the event has raised over $300,000 for good causes across Australia.
Riders can either choose to raise money for a charity of their choice, or they can add to the coffers of these six official Bowral Classic Charity Partners:
Black Dog Institute
Chris O’Brien Lifehouse
JDRF
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Rare Cancers Australia
Freedom Wheels
The 2019 Bowral Classic will be Bicycling Australia’s biggest and best Gran Fondo event yet, and we can’t wait to see you down there.
For event information or to register, visit www.bowralclassic.com.au
