Welcome to Amy Gillett Foundation e-news, providing news about cycling activities, events and road safety. The AGF is busy working to ensure that you, and those around you, are safe on the roads.
Amy's Ride
The Bellarine Peninsula was the perfect backdrop for the fourth annual Amy’s Ride Victoria, proudly supported by Cyclecover, with over 2,200 people out on their bikes in beautiful sunshine. Thanks to everyone who helped to spread the ‘safe together’ message and raise funds so the AGF can continue to improve road safety for cyclists and motorists. A special thank you must go to our volunteers and sponsors, who made the whole event possible.
The Amy’s Ride Fundraising Challenge is still on! Raise over $500 and you will receive a stylish AGF cycling jersey (as worn by Phil Anderson and Cameron McConville, amongst others). You will also go into the draw for your chance to win a 16 day cycling tour of Vietnam valued at $2400, courtesy of The Adventure Travel Company. (Conditions apply) You have until 19 January 2009 to complete your fundraising, so what are you waiting for?! Click here to join the Fundraising Challenge and win great prizes.
Multisport AlburyCity - one of the nation’s largest multi sporting events - will officially be launched on Thursday January 29. Albury will host the inaugural regional NSW Amy’s Ride as part of the Multisport AlburyCity on Saturday 7 March. Amy’s Ride (Albury) will feature two rides for cyclists to explore the southern region of NSW: a challenging 124km course and a moderate 40km course. Click here for full MAC details.
Safety Tips
Summer is a great time for cycling and trying out new rides, but don’t let a good journey turn bad because of mechanical issues. Make sure your bike is in good working order before you set out (check brakes, tyres and gears). For peace of mind, you should also investigate what roadside assistance is available in your state. For example, the RACT and RACV both offer ‘Bike Assist’ which is designed to help cyclists if your bike cannot be ridden due to a puncture or minor mechanical problem. If they can’t fix the bike they will help to get you and your bike to your destination.
Cycling Events Calendar
If you need a reason to get on your bike, a cycling event in your local area could be the inspiration you’re looking for. To find out what’s happening click here or visit one of the following websites:
• Tour Down Under Adelaide, 18 – 25 January
• Peter O'Callaghan Mt Dandenong Challenge, Sunday 22 February
• Ballarat Cycle Classic, Sunday 22 February
• Holden High Country Cycle Challenge, Saturday 28 February and Sunday 1 March
Cycling News
The cycling community is suffering from the loss of two of its members in recent weeks. Sean Brindle, a Western Australian cyclist, was on holiday in Melbourne when he and his brother Alun were hit by a drink-driver on Beach Road in Mentone on Christmas Eve. Alun remains in critical condition, while the driver has been charged with culpable driving and has been refused bail.
In a separate incident, Laura Pettifer, a keen triathlete based in Mackay, was involved in a fatal accident whilst training for the Port Macquarie Iron Man competition. Laura’s family have generously asked that donations be made to the AGF in her loving memory.
The AGF is committed to reducing the incidence of death and injury between cyclists and motorists, and our thoughts are with the Brindle and Pettifer families.
GREAT OFFER FROM CYCLECOVER
Special offer to Amy's Ride participants and all Amy Gillett Foundation supporters - 10% off Cyclecover Gold premiums!
Cyclecover are proud supporters of the Amy Gillett Foundation and the official insurance partner of Amy's Ride. In recognition of this support, Cyclecover would like to offer all participants in Amy's Ride and all Amy Gillett Foundation supporters a special discount offer of 10% off our standard Cyclecover Gold premiums for the first 12 months cover. This offer is valid on policies incepted prior to 28th February 2009. Click here to learn more.
AGF News
Amy Gillett Scholarship 2009 – call for nominations
The Amy Gillett Foundation in partnership with Cycling Australia is calling for nominations for the 2009 Amy Gillett Scholarship. One talented Australian female cyclist will join Australia’s AIS High Performance Program overseas to compete internationally and will receive outstanding financial and in kind support as they endeavour to launch their cycling careers. Previous recipients include Carla Ryan and Carlee Taylor (pictured), who are currently having success in Australia and overseas. Click here for full details and application forms.
Carla Ryan, recipient of the 2007 Amy Gillett Scholarship, has won a rare cycling double at the Australian national titles in Buninyong, Victoria. On Wednesday 7 January she won the Australian time trial, the second time that she has done so. On Saturday Carla beat two fellow Queenslanders in the road race. The only other female to have won the double at the national championships is Oenone Wood. Congratulations to Carla and we wish you continued success in 2009.
AGF Activities
The primary objective of the Amy Gillett Foundation is to reduce death and injury between cyclists and motorists. Click below to learn more about our key programs and activities including:
• Road-Right
• AustCycle
• Road Users’ Code of Conduct
