Australia’s premier cycling destination, Victoria’s High Country, will once again host one of the world’s toughest one-day cycling events, Bicycle Network’s Peaks Challenge Falls Creek, on Sunday 8 March 2020.
Since debuting in storms, rain and sleet in 2010, the event has become infamous around the globe for its grueling 235 kilometre course with more than 4,000 metres of climbing and a strict 13-hour time limit. The event was named as the only Australian event in the Global Cycling Network’s list of ‘Top 10 Best Sportives and Gran Fondos in the World’!
Bicycle Network spokesperson Anthea Hargreaves said Peaks Challenge Falls Creek will draw up to 2,000 cyclists from Australia and overseas in 2020. “Cyclists will come from far and wide to find their limit at Peaks Challenge Falls Creek. It’s one of the only times you can test yourself on a ride comparable to the Tour de France,” said Ms Hargreaves. “Support will be given to riders as they push themselves up three separate mountains, with Bicycle Network providing food, hydration, medical and mechanical assistance and a team of ride leaders setting the pace.”
The Peaks Challenge Falls Creek course starts at the top of Falls Creek before taking on three key climbs up Tawonga Gap Road near Mount Beauty, Mount Hotham and the back of Falls Creek starting near Anglers Rest. There will be seven separate rest areas set up along the route for riders to refuel and recover at, as well as a food and clothing valet service for riders to access supplies and a change cycling kit mid-ride.
Those who finish within the 13-hour time limit will receive a coveted Peaks Challenge Falls Creek finishers jersey, while $3,000 prize money is also available for the King and Queen of Peaks who ride the fastest time up the three climbs. “13 hours may sound like a long time, but an average speed of almost 20km/h is a hard thing to achieve when your pushing up mountains for 50 kilometres. Not everyone who starts the ride will get a Finisher’s jersey,” added Ms Hargreaves.
Early bird entries to Peaks Challenge Falls Creek open to Bicycle Network members on Monday 9 September at $315 and the general public on Monday 16 September at $329. Prices increase on Monday 9 December. Entries and full event information is available at peakschallenge.com.au.
