Stages three and five of the sensational Santos Tour Down under are coming to the Fleurieu Peninsula with some of the world’s best cyclists flashing past from January 14-22, but it’s not all just about the men.
Kieran Secombe, pictured on our front cover, reminds us that there is also the Santos Women’s Tour Down Under from January 11-14, and remarkably it has been upgraded to be just one level below World Tour status.
According to Kieran, cycling is a sport that can ultimately place young boys and girls on the world stage, and she is hoping this 20th TDU will inspire youngsters to join a cycling club and give the sport a try.
“Not every child can play ball sports well, and cycling is such great fun,” Kieran said. “I have been riding for almost five years and at first I didn’t really like it that much.
“But when I bought a good bike that all changed. Now I have dream-ride days. I participate in sport in the open air; there is no impact on my joints, and I can ride along as often as I want, in a group or in competition.”
Kieran jokes she is definitely the disciplined cyclist in her family – with husband, Matt, she has two children, Georgia, 14, and Parker, three – but adds cycling can be something special for a family.
Like any sport, the equipment can be as expensive, and Kieran has two special bikes including a Giant Liv (TT) bike, competes in triathlons, and has enjoyed success. She formed the Victor Harbor Triathlon Club two years ago and the local coaching club, but importantly, she said, there are also social cycling groups for all ages.
“The best thing to do is go to your local bike shop and ask what’s in your area,” Kieran said. “They tend to know all of the groups that may suit you, and they can also advise on the appropriate bikes to buy. They genuinely care about cycling as a sport.”
www.victorhrabortriathlonclub.com.au – facebook.
Families have the opportunity to ride under the official UCI WorldTour finish arch at Victor Harbor as part of the Bupa Family Ride on Thursday, January 18. They may take the big stage together, riding laps of the UCI World Tour tracks just hours before the world’s elite cyclists hit the streets. Participants will take on the Stage 3 finish straight, riding laps along the esplanade. Bike trailers and child seats welcome. Cost is $30 for one adult + child. Additional family members $5 each. Register at: www.tourdownunder.com.au