Stars align: York set to welcome 600 riders for Canola Classic cycling fondo this Sunday (23 Aug)

The Canola Classic returns to the picturesque roads of the Avon Valley this Sunday, 23 August with 600 riders from Perth and around the State set to descend on WA’s oldest (and goldest) inland town – and stargazing hotspot!

 

The fondoists will challenge themselves over one (52km) or two loops (93km) 52km through the region’s stunning landscapes while enjoying the camaraderie and challenge that define fondo cycling.

 

“There is a unique magic to this region when the canola fields are in full bloom, and experiencing it from the saddle is, in my opinion, the absolute best way to take it all in,” said WestCycle CEO Wayne Bradshaw.

 

“Fondos represent the very best of our riding culture. They aren’t just about speed or who crosses the line first. They’re about community, personal achievements, and the simple joy of riding. Whether you’re a seasoned road cyclist, an e-bike enthusiast, or taking on your first fondo, this event belongs to you.”

 

York riding high

 

Chris Gibbs, Shire president, said the event resonated well beyond the actual event day on Sunday.

 

“Events like the Canola Classic provide an excellent beacon for people to stay active,” Gibbs said. “The people of York welcome these and other events because they understand the value of the tourism it brings, the community-minded spirit it brings and that it all contributes to York becoming a destination location for a day trip, for a holiday or for a complete change of lifestyle.”

 

The said apart from Shire highlights like the local restaurants, hotels and cafes, the walking and riding trails including the Tiny Doors of York Trail, Mount Brown and canola gazing, “there’s the incredible stargazing opportunities out here.”

 

“With less than 4000 people in the entire Shire there’s almost no light pollution and the sky really lights up out here. We hope people will stay for the weekend.”

 

The Canola Classic rolls out of the York on Sunday morning (23 August) at 8am.

 

For media enquiries and interviews please contact:

Shane Starling

WestCycle Communications manager

0492 897 199

shane@westcycle.org.au

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Tim Roach (Chair)

Elected Director | Off Road

Tim has been in senior leadership and strategic development roles for more than 20 years and is currently a project risk consultant, and a part time academic at Edith Cowan University.

He is a past Director of Executive Education in the School of Business and Law at Edith Cowan University and Assistant Commissioner and General Manager in the public service. He is an Accountant (FCPA) and previously sat on the Divisional Council of CPA Australia. Tim has been involved in racing mountain bikes, BMX and triathlon for many years, both as a father of two children who race and as a past and current bike racer.

Helen Sadler (Deputy Chair)

Independent Director

Helen is a Town of Cottesloe councillor and is the current Chair of WestCycle’s Transport Advisory Group.

A medical doctor, Helen is a strong active transport advocate with a focus on health outcomes and social well-being.