Welcome to the Big W Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride for 2010.

As has been the case in years past, the Ride Committee has scheduled organised training rides to assist people in their preparations for the big event. Similar to previous years, the training is primarily aimed at new riders that need to establish their cycling capacity (to ensure that their ride to Cairns is a pleasure – not an ordeal), and past riders that have had their bikes in mothballs since last July.

To past riders of all abilities- you are more than welcome on these rides. Your experience and capacity to encourage and pass on your experience is highly valued. Your assistance is required to ensure training rides can run effectively.

Our training schedule has been designed to assist you in building a sound endurance base. Such training works most efficiently at a moderate level of physical exertion and for that reason “Distance as Fast as Possible” is not part of our training philosophy.

Accordingly, cardio fitness and leg strength training has not been given a high priority in the programme. However, an amount of work of that nature is often beneficial if run in parallel. Additional sessions may be arranged if there is sufficient interest.

In past years we have also run core body strength sessions. Whereas this is an important aspect of preparation for long rides, there has been little interest previously. This fact usually manifests itself as lengthy queues of aching bodies waiting for the masseuses at the end of each day enroute to Cairns.   Similarly, additional sessions may be arranged if there is sufficient interest.

We also recommend that new riders don’t leave their training to the month before the ride. Because the training rides progressively build, late starters do have the capacity to hinder others from getting the most out of their training. We do not intend to leave anybody behind on our training outings.

For those who have not been physically active for some time or are new to bike riding or maybe “ain’t no spring chicken no more” we would recommend you checking with your physician before proceeding. Although we attempt to undertake most training at moderate exertion levels, there are times when maximum effort and some discomfort are required.

Please ensure that your bike is well maintained and in good condition (particularly tyres and brakes) before starting rides. A service by a professional bike mechanic is highly recommended.  It may also be useful to read the “Beginners Riding Tips” and FAQ’s elsewhere on our web site before hand.

Riders should also be aware that they are not insured by the Committee whilst participating in the Big W Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride or associated training rides. Some information on insurance options is also included under the FAQ section of this web site.

Hope you enjoy your ride preparation and ultimately your ride to Cairns.

All rides start and finish at McDonalds Aitkenvale (Nathan St)
Rides start at 6.00am
Bring spare tube, water bottles, pump, & snacks
Weekday morning rides may be scheduled depending on interest
You will need lights for your bike for early morning starts.
This schedule may be subject to change depending road conditions and group fitness levels.


Peter & Brett.

More information phone Peter 0418756533, Brett 0404896771