Amy’s Ride Victoria - proudly supported by Cyclecover

Amy's Ride Victoria 2009 was a great success! Thanks to everyone who rode, volunteered, sponsored and supported the AGF.

Over 2,200 riders were treated to almost perfect summer weather conditions on Sunday 4 January when they traveled around the Bellarine Peninsula for Amy's Ride.

People were able to choose from four ride distances this year - 120kms, 65kms, 22kms or the 1km 'Go for your life' kids loop. The 22kms road/trail ride was new and it proved to be a popular choice with almost 150 participants on this ride. Another new addition to Amy's Ride was the Portarlington Road left lane closure. This helped everyone to get off to a good start as they found their rhythm, and we hope to extend this lane closure for future events.

Wearing ride numbers 0001 and 0002 were Amy's parents, Mary and Denis Safe. The start line alongside them was a sea of AGF jerseys and it was fantastic that so many people proudly wore the 'safe together' message as they took to the roads.

A popular drawcard at the event, understandably, was Cadel Evans. Wearing the now familiar Silence-Lotto jersey he joined the riders out on the course before returning to the Winners stand where he signed autographs and posed for photos with his many admirers.

Other familiar faces on the day included Phil Anderson, Cameron McConville, Olivia Gollan, Phil Liggett, Robbie McEwen, Stuart O'Grady, the Jayco Flyers (including Emma Carney, Craig Mottram, Michael Klim and Michael Roberts) and George Donikian (on the microphone!).

Overall, the level of respect and safety on Amy's Ride was high. There were a small number of incidents reported to us of unsafe behaviour (both motorists and cyclists) which reinforces to us that the AGF still has work to do to create a shared respect on our roads.

One of the most common issues that we receive feedback about is cyclists riding in bunches. It's important to remember when you are cycling on public roads, whether in Amy's Ride or with any group of cyclists, you should ride no more than two abreast unless overtaking when it is safe to do so.

More than $80,000 was raised for the AGF thanks to Amy's Ride participants, sponsors and supporters. This will help the AGF continue working to keep the roads safe through programs including Road-Right, AustCycle and Ride Right.

Over 90% of people who responded to our survey said that they would participate in Amy's Ride next year, so thank you for your support and we look forward to seeing you in 2010!

Photos: a selection of photographs from Amy's Ride is now available - click on the pink icon at the top left of your screen to view the photo gallery.

Thank you: the AGF would like to extend a big, heart-felt thank you to our volunteers - you made the day possible. Many riders commented on how friendly and helpful the volunteers were, especially at the drink stops out on the course. A special thanks goes to the Rotarty Club of Ocean Grove, not only for your time but for your generous donation.

Thank you: to Rachael Kininmonth, our Event Coordinator extraordinaire, who worked tirelessly to make Amy's Ride come together. Thanks as well to John Trevorrow, Bree Gow and their team and Cycling Events DownUnder, and signage experts Simon and Rhys Gillett.

Click below for previous rides:

2008 Amy's Ride