Elsie Lange
Cycling 65 stunning kilometres around the Macedon Ranges doesn’t sound like a bad way to spend a Saturday.
Alison Skene certainly thinks so, which is why she’s organised this year’s Hanging Rock Handicap on February 26 – a women’s-only handicap format road race around Hanging Rock, Newham and Lancefield.
With more than 90 entrants, Ms Skene is excited for the day, which is geared towards cyclists at all levels.
“It’s a road race for women to get more women into racing, by putting on a really inclusive, fun, challenging event that they can really enjoy,” Ms Skene said.
“It appeals to women who ride, but have never raced before, but also anyone who has done a bit of racing, or lots of racing.”
It’s the third year of the race, and after a hiatus in 2021, it’s back and bigger than ever.
“It’s just beautiful riding country, rolling hills – I went out there today and did a loop of the course” Ms Skene said.
“I just love it out there, it’s just so pretty.
“The roads are quiet, it’s scenic, it’s not too steep, but you can do steep hills if you want.”
A handicap race allows people of all levels to race competitively, starting at different points and times so that the competition is equal.
Supported by Topbike Tours, Pedla, VicHealth and Hawthorn Cycling Club, the Hanging Rock Handicap also gives entrants the opportunity to donate to the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network – they’ve raised about $350 so far.
“The thing that I’m really proud of is that it’s Australia’s biggest and best road race for women, and it was from the beginning,” Ms Skene said.
“I’ve done a lot of cycle racing, often against men, and that’s fine, but a lot of races are designed with men in mind and a lot of women don’t feel included.
“I designed it from the ground up to suit women, and it really just worked.”
Details: entryboss.cc/races/9449?fbclid=IwAR2hPmv_sIkJIyZ-sOEzzVh60zLkI5dPv-Iu8mAW4NZ7EvoAZ73SpzV8ONM
