Fitness aside, food preparation for a ride like this is critical. After experiencing the early stages of being hangry two years ago, I had to ensure the perfect snacks and lunch was packed for the 125km ride. Wrap ingredients from Fedeli were ideal!

The EPIC ride clockwise day ride around Lake Hawea was my first so it was important to pace myself and spread out my energy. As we jostled for position, staying with a pack of riders with similar cadence seemed to work well. Cheers of support from the friendly farmers and locals made all the difference, especially those at Hunter Valley station!

There were a few highlights along the way, which included my parents circling over-head in a plane they rented. Fortunately they were able to find a pilot to go with them.  Safety first. I had just waded through waist deep water at the head of the lake when I heard the plane, so naturally I waved like a crazy person. Mum snapped away…

I saw people with bad cramp, shared a few words with a few that were ‘over it’ and had a smile from ear to ear when I pulled up to the scone station at the Dingle Burn Station. Hydration and making sure the electrolytes were topped up was important. Even with one Kidney, I felt a surge of energy to boost me home toward the finish line, 7 hours later!

My amazing parents met me in Hawea as a finishers medal was placed around my neck, which pretty much tops the highlights! An Epic day out on the bike and I’m stoked to tick another goal of my list. Already thinking about the menu for next year… Big thanks to Outside Sports & Specialized for the support.