The Ballarat Cycle Classic, raising essential money for cancer research, returns on February 16, and there'll be some familiar faces on the course.
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Ballarat's own Nick White, fresh from a big weekend competing at the RoadNats, will return as an ambassador for the second year in a row, and he's encouraging everyone to get involved.
He said the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute's work was an exceptional cause - recently, as well as breakthroughs in bowel cancer, the institute is working on unlocking the genetic 'barcode' of breast cancer.
"I think it's something really special," Mr White said.
"It's something I've always enjoyed being a part of and raising money for such a good cause, and it's important that it's an event that continues to grow and expand."
There are several options on the day for all levels of cyclists to have a go, from children's loops and laps around Lake Wendouree, a mountain bike challenge, and distance road rides.
This year, honouring ambassador Danny Frawley, the event is introducing the SPUD 100, a 100 mile (160 kilometre) extended loop across the district billed as a true test of grit and determination.
Mr Frawley died last year, but had supported the institute's work for many years - Mr White said it was important to recognise him.
"I think it's a good way to commemorate someone who is very dear to the Ballarat community, and someone who has supported this event as much as he had," he said.
The Cycle Classic has been part of Mr White's cycling life since he was little, he added.
"Growing up, when I was really young, it's an event I always looked forward to doing," he said.
"When I first started cycling, I remember doing laps of the lake with my friends, we'd see how many we could do as part of the event, then as I got older, I started doing the bigger loops."
Mr White is now competing as part of Team BridgeLane, taking home a bronze in the RoadNats criterium on Friday night before a challenging road race on Sunday.
It came after a massive 2019, which included winning the Melbourne to Warrnambool race and a stage in the Tour of Taiwan.
"With RoadNats and everything else we have, it's the perfect location for the Cycle Classic," he said.
"What better place to hold it than the home of cycling in Australia, here in Ballarat?"
Registrations are now open at www.ballaratcycleclassic.com.au
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