This year’s event saw more than 1800 cyclists and walkers take part in the event that raised money for the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Initiative. 

Cycle Classic event manager Nicole Bartlett said she was grateful of the continued local support for the event. 

“It is just fantastic,” she said. 

“We really are just happy with the result.

“As always it is due to the community support and local people embracing and getting around the event. 

“It (the proceeds) goes to our research projects.

“We currently have four research projects on the go. 

“The great thing is that it is a local thing – all of the proceeds are used locally.”

Ms Bartlett said the institute encouraged residents to come and see where the funds were being used. 

“Our researchers have worked in other laboratories and can’t believe the level of quality we have here in Ballarat,” she said. 

This year’s event included a new aspect for participants who could walk a lap of Lake Wendouree rather than ride a bicycle.

A variety of bike rides were also available for the event, including a 100-kilometre event. 

“We try and cater for everyone and have something for everyone – there are about eight different events,” she said. 

“We try to say if you can’t jump on a bike you might be able to walk a lap of the lake.”

Since the event’s inception in 2008 it has raised more than $1.2 million for FECRI, with planning for 2016 already underway. 

About 200 volunteers helped make the event possible. 

“There is that flip side where if you can’t participate, you can help out in some way,” she said. 

“The volunteer community was just fantastic.

“We wouldn’t be able to put it together without them – they work tirelessly.” 

matthew.dixon@fairfaxmedia. com.au