THOUSANDS of bike riders are set to return to the Yarra Ranges in April 2017 for Bicycle Network’s second women-only ride, The Ascent.
Held for the first time this year, Bicycle Network’s The Ascent ride aims to address the gender imbalance in cycling by encouraging women of all ages to get active through bike riding.
Starting and finishing at Cherry Hill Orchards on Sunday, 23 April, 2017, the 40km, 70km and 100km circuits will see riders enjoy the very best riding conditions the Yarra Ranges has to offer, including the famous ‘1 in 20’ climb from The Basin to Sassafras.
Incorporating an entire route of full or partial road closures, The Ascent ride will pass through numerous areas including Wandin, Montrose, Mount Evelyn, Kilsyth South, The Basin, Ferny Creek, Sassafras, Sherbrooke, Kallista, The Patch, Monbulk, Macclesfield, Yellingbo and Hoddles Creek.
The Ascent ride is the hallmark event of a wider program, which includes free skills sessions, training rides, demo days and other resources aimed at reducing the barriers women face when participating in bike riding.
Bicycle Network’s General Manager of Events, Rebecca Lane, said that Bicycle Network was committed to working closely with the local community to ensure the ongoing success of the event.
“We’ve reviewed the community’s feedback from this year’s The Ascent ride and we will continue to work closely with all local stakeholders to ensure the 2017 event is a success for both the local community and participants, while showcasing the stunning Yarra Ranges region,” Ms Lane said.
“The Ascent is more than a ride, it’s our commitment to addressing the gender imbalance in cycling.
“That’s why it’s critical that it succeeds and we’d love the Yarra Ranges community to be a part of this change.”
Some 700 women took to the Yarra Ranges for last year’s The Ascent ride, directly injecting more than $112,000 into the local community.
In 2017, Bicycle Network is looking to increase participant numbers to 2000.
“There’s also great opportunity for businesses, community groups and tourism operators to be directly involved with the event, with many opportunities available, including fund-raising, catering and promotion to Bicycle Network’s community of more than 52,000 members.”
Yarra Ranges Council Mayor, Cr Noel Cliff, said it was fantastic to see the event return with the inclusion of a 40km route as an option for riders.
“Council is excited to be supporting the women’s bike ride The Ascent for its second year,” Cr Cliff said.
“We are urging the Yarra Ranges community to take part and get behind the event.”
For more information on the event and program, visit theascent.com.au.
