General News
29 October, 2024
Arapiles Cycling Event raises $2000 for charity, draws 88 riders statewide
2024 Arapiles Cycling Event attracts 88 riders, boosts tourism.
The 2024 Arapiles Cycling Event attracted 88 riders from across Victoria and raised $2000 for Wimmera Against Cancer in Kids.
Held on Saturday, October 5, in cool, damp conditions, participants enjoyed four routes - 100km, 75km, 50km, and 20km - that took them past Mount Arapiles and through scenic country roads.
Event spokesperson Mark Radford said riders praised the event's welcoming atmosphere and community spirit. Many stayed in Horsham and Natimuk for the weekend, boosting local tourism.
"Many Riders travelled to Horsham and Natimuk for the weekend and this has knock-on benefits for the local tourism economy," Mr Radford said.
"The 2024 Ride included two father and son teams, a team of riders from Port Fairy... two riders who rode the 100Km circuit and then headed back to Melbourne to complete the 'Round The Bay' Ride the next day and a growing number of E-bike riders participating."
Belmont's Mark Nuttall said he enjoyed travelling to Horsham for the weekend and completing the ride.
"I like to support rides like yours that are smaller where people give up their time to run the event and the money goes back into community," he said.
"[I] really like that the ride is on Saturday morning so we can make the most of the weekend trip.
"This is the second year Glen and I have completed this event and want to return next year. We drove up Friday night completed the ride and spent the afternoon having lunch at a winery with our wives."
The Arapiles Cycling Event started in 2014 and is considered a 'boutique' ride on the recreation Cycling Calendar, sanctioned by AusCycling. It is usually held on the first Saturday in October.