Rob Wilson has clocked up hundreds – perhaps even thousands – of hours in the saddle since he returned to cycling, owing in no small part to the staggering 18 or 19 Great Victorian Bike Rides he’s completed.
He’s done so many he’s not even sure whether he’ll be participating in his 19th or 20th this November.
The Deer Park technician signed up for the 500-kilometre challenge recently and he’s already started training by ditching his car and riding to his office in Yarraville a few times a week.
The 63-year-old started riding again in earnest when his children became involved in scouting and its cycling elements.
About the same time, his brother mentioned a long-distance ride he was doing in Western Australia and he decided to investigate whether there was a closer equivalent.
“I looked around and found one in Victoria and thought I’d try it,” he said. “I enjoyed it and enjoyed meeting people who were riding. I just kept going back – it’s the exercise and the social atmosphere.”
Entries for the 34th RACV Great Victorian Bike Ride, which begins on November 25, are now being accepted.
Participants can choose to enter the rides taking up to three, five or nine days. All rides begin on Wilsons Promontory.
Details: greatvic.com.au
