With legs aching and eyes struggling to focus, we boarded the 5:45am bus departing from Warrnambool, headed for the 12 Apostles, marking the beginning of day five in the Chain Reaction Sydney ride. Anticipation filled the air for what promised to be a breathtaking journey, tracing from the 12 Apostles all the way to Torquay, with a notable stretch along the majestic Great Ocean Road.
The iconic Victorian landmarks, renowned globally, lived up to their reputation, albeit with a few of the original 12 missing. The photos and videos captured during the morning (and throughout the day) will undoubtedly surpass my attempts to describe the experience. We gathered for group photos, basking in the sunlight reflecting off the apostles, creating stunning imagery.
The peloton set off in coolish temperatures with a big day ahead, knowing the first half of the day included most of the elevation. 60km into the ride, we turned right and headed along Turton’s Track. Absolutely stunning 20km of winding, narrow roads, through the Otway Ranges with canopy of trees, and vines providing a unique and memorable experience.
The descend into Skene’s Creek was fast and fierce, with the Great Ocean Road awaiting. For the next 90km we had a south easterly wind creating favorable weather conditions. My words won’t do the ride justice, we couldn’t have asked for better conditions along the majestic stretch of the famous Great Ocean Road. Following a brief stop at Lorne pub for lunch, the peloton worked together to get through the final 50km and roll into Torquay in one piece.
While I can't speak for everyone in the peloton, I can confidently say that was one of the most exhilarating days I've ever had on a bike. The 180km route had everything, climbing 2800m of elevation, fast rolling sections and perfect weather conditions along a globally acclaimed stretch of road.
A few well-earned beers have been consumed post ride, reflecting on a memorable day.
After covering approximately 800km over the first five days, the morale within the peloton remains buoyant as we press onward for the final two days of cycling, with 300km left to go! Above all, we've successfully achieved our $900,000 target, and now we're enthusiastically striving to raise even more for children in need.
