The ride started with a solid climb up O'Halloran Hill which sorted out the pack nicely according to individual ability and levels of fitness. Current AGF scholarship holder Amber Halliday was amongst the front runners leading the charge up the hill and on approaching the crest of the hill riders were encouraged on by a trident carry "she-devil" and pumping tunes from DJ Chris from Beats Working mobile DJ's.

After the end of the Expressway the route split with the shorter 25km/30km riders turning right to find their refreshment station at the entrance to the Coast to Vines Rail Trail on River Rd after which it was a nice cruisey pedal on to McLaren Vale.
Those tackling the 60km & 100km routes continued on through Old Noarlunga to Moana for the first drinks stop and a welcome sea breeze before making their way to the Willunga refreshments via Maslin's Beach and Aldinga.
The refreshment station at Willunga was certainly well patronised with riders taking full advantage of the food and drinks provided, including of Powerade, Bakers Delight Fit2Go bars and bananas from Woolworths. The cooling water misting tents were also in constant demand as riders sought relief from the warm temps.

Willunga was also the point where many riders made the decision to settle for 60kms and headed directly for the event finish at McLaren Vale. However there were still many who weren't going to let Willunga Hill beat them and with their sights set firmly on the 100km target continued on through the heat - the water stop at the top providing much needed hydration. A cooling of temperature and a light breeze provided a little relief on the traverse across Range Rd before an exhilarating decent down Old Wickams Hill - a little too much exhilaration for a couple of riders who came to grief on one of the notorious hairpin bends.
The bottom of Wickhams Hill provided another option to take a shortcut home but still many pushed on to the 3rd refreshment station at Fingerboard Corner Kangarilla, before the final run back to the finish and a well earned rest at the McLaren Vale Visitor Information Centre.

There was a fantastic festival atmosphere at the finish village with plenty of food and drink, numerous cycling-related exhibits and some great tunes by local band Thundermoose. Local food and wine producers took the opportunity to showcase their produce and Sportsmed SA volunteers provided free massage to relieve many aching muscles.  Channel 10 news presenter George Donikian was in his usual fine form as he kept the crowd entertained with random interviews with riders and cycling personalities.

The day's events culminated with the presentation of a cheque for $70,000.00 to Amy Gillett Foundation CEO Tony Fox by Bicycle SA CEO Christian Haag. A fantastic result for day and a tremendous indication of support for the Amy Gillett Foundation and the ongoing cause of promoting  road safety and shared respect between all road users.

 

 

Read about the previous ride: 2008 Amy's Ride SA

 

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