Thousands of cyclists rode through the region on Saturday for a new event on the cycling calendar.
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Around 1500 cyclists participated in Ride Daylesford, completing either a 33km, 63km or 146km recreational course.
Sections of the course weaved through the region’s wineries, springs and countryside. The course, starting and finishing in Daylesford, passed through Hepburn Springs, Franklinford, Newstead, Maldon, Walmer, Harcourt, Malmsbury and Kyneton.
The SME360 organised event raised over $55,000 for Breast Cancer Network Australia.
SME360 Ride Daylesford participant manager Tim Smith said the feedback from riders was positive.
“The atmosphere was really great. It was a very relaxed friendly sort of ride,” Mr Smith said.
“Everyone who came back from the ride said how much they enjoyed the scenery in the local area.”
Mr Smith said the beautiful scenery was one aspect that drew cyclists to the event.
“Finishers said they enjoyed the ride. They said the scenery was really lovely and all the locals were really nice, especially the motorists that were around the course as well,” Mr Smith said.
“I think everyone is looking forward to coming back next year.”
Mr Smith said SME360 was looking at hosting Ride Daylesford again in 2018.
SME360 CEO Martin Jolly said Daylesford was a great location for the ride as the region offered a weekend away for the whole family.
“Known as the ‘wellness region’ with its extensive spa and health focus and a wide variety of accommodation, it is a perfect match for a cycling event,” Mr Jolly said.
Breast Cancer Network Australia head of fundraising Rozalee Erceg said Ride Daylesford was a unique opportunity for cyclists to raise funds for breast cancer.
“In 2017 alone, more than 17,000 Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer,” Ms Erceg said.
“We see our partnership with Friendsurance Ride Daylesford as a unique opportunity for partners, family and friends along with corporate teams and cycling enthusiasts to help raise funds to support Australians affected by breast cancer.”
October is breast cancer awareness month to raise awareness and funds to prevent the most common cancer among Australian women.