• Hume Star
• Wallan, Kilmore, Broadford Star
• Whittlesea, Mernda, Doreen Star

By Kate Bonsack

10th June 2008 11:06:18 AM

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Riding on … Councillor Mary Lalios has helped organise Whittlesea’s first cycling event.

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HUNDREDS of cyclists are expected in Whittlesea township in August to ride in the town’s first major cycling event.

Whittlesea councillor Mary Lalios, who was recently appointed onto the Victorian Bicycle Advisory Committee, has helped organise the event with CycleSport Victoria. The race will begin and finish at Walker Reserve and cover a distance of 110km.

The course will take riders through Humevale, Kinglake West, Strath Creek and Broadford.

Cr Lalios said the event would benefit Whittlesea township, as it would attract many riders to the region.

“This should be great for the local traders and our tourism industry,” she said.

Event co-ordinator Adam Smith said he expected about 500 riders to take part.

He said the event was the second in a new series of recreational rides called Cyclosportif Victoria.

“The first event was held in Geelong last February and we’ve identified Whittlesea as a good location for our second event due to its close proximity to Melbourne and the scenery,” he said.

“More events will be held later in the year at other Victorian locations, but next year we hope to have eight events with Whittlesea included on the calendar again.”

The event is open to everyone, including recreational and professional riders.

Mr Smith said it was not a race, but was a chance for riders challenge themselves and enjoy the ride.

“Whittlesea should definitely benefit from this, as riders may use the local accommodation and businesses,” he said.

Entry into the event is now open. For more information visit www.vic.cycling.org.au.

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