Time to Race

• Andrew Martin
• 18 years ago
• Categories: Blog

This Saturday I’m planning on heading out to the Murarrie Cycling Facility for the weekly Balmoral Circuit Race. I’ve raced in London (Hillingdon Circuit) and it’s much the same sort of course: flattish, wide pavement, closed to traffic (yay!), and WINDY. I did a shake-down ride today to sort out the way to the course. I figure about an hour to ride there to be safe considering the hills en-route have enough pitch to make me happy to have the 25.

The roads I’ve found to be quite wide, many with designated bike lanes. Some are even a full lane in width! There are of course some sketchier sections, but for the most part it feels pretty safe here. The drivers have been very courteous so far and seem actually aware that I’m about (shocking, I know). I’m going to have to head out and take some pics of the road furniture they use here – some interesting ways to make a road bike-friendly, and car-not-so-friendly.

Plans may change for Saturday, but in the mean time – some snaps from my scouting trip:

They have a dedicated bike park (a couple I’ve read). There’s been at least one article in the paper each day I’ve been here that road cycling is on the rise. Very cool.

The “Hill” is more of a soft rise. I’m sure with a group, it’ll pass before you feel it.

They have an actual finish line on the course. I think the last race I did with a finish line banner was Quad Cities circa 2001.