AMY'S RIDE

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Victoria’s second annual Amy’s Ride was today declared an outstanding success by organisers and participants alike, with well over 2,000 riders taking part in the various cycling courses around Geelong and its environs.

Amy’s team mates, Katie Brown, Alexis Rhodes, Lorian Graham and Louise Yaxley enjoyed a ride together - their first since the accident in Germany in July 2005. They were joined by some of Australia’s top professional cyclists including Robbie McEwen, Simon Gerrans, Nick Gates, Olivia Gollan and Kate and Natalie Bates.

As a major fundraiser for the Amy Gillett Foundation, Amy’s Ride ultimately aims to promote mutual awareness and understanding between cyclists and motorists on our roads, as well as to commemorate Amy’s life

The Amy Gillett Foundation General Manager, Melinda Jacobsen, was delighted with the day’s results:

“Each year some 35 cyclists are killed and over 2,500 seriously injured on our roads. This coincides with figures just released indicating that bike sales now exceed that of car sales, with 1.3-million sold last year.

“With this volume in mind, we recognise the need to raise mutual awareness amongst cyclists and motorists. As well as being an outstanding day for amateur and professional cyclists alike, Amy’s Ride is one way to raise this awareness,” said Jacobsen.

Local motorists were commended for their patient driving during the ride.

“It was very reassuring seeing motorists and cyclists share the road during today’s ride. Drivers and cyclists were very courteous to one another. This is precisely the sort of etiquette and mutual respect we hope to see cultivated more and more on Australian roads,” said Jacobsen.

Competitor Katie Brown was equally thrilled with the day.

“It’s terrific to see professional riders sharing the road with those who are clearly just out for an enjoyable and relaxing time on the bike.  I was particularly impressed to see so many families taking part this year – what a great way to break in those Christmas bike presents!” said Brown.

The Amy Gillett Foundation plans to generate further awareness for its cause through a series of events and initiatives to be conducted throughout 2007.