WET weather didn't deter the spirited arrival of more than 2700 cyclists in Myrtleford on Sunday, celebrating Bicycle Network's 40th Great Victorian Bike Ride. Participants made an early start, riding from Wodonga to arrive in the late morning or early afternoon in town, followed shortly after by heavy rains which saturated the encampment at the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve. The cyclists' spirits were undampened however, as they were welcomed by Bicycle Network representatives at the gate, signed in, pitched their tents and enjoyed the many attractions and services available. On site were bicycle equipment and repair tents, a mobile sauna and cold-plunge facility, massage tables, food vans, a power bank rental stall, coffee cart and an ice cream van. A shuttle bus operated throughout the afternoon to take attendees into town. After decompressing, attendees enjoyed performances from Terry Lockwood and Joe Davis between 2pm and 3pm, followed by Tracy Hamilton and the Friesians from 3pm to 6pm. Myrtleford Chamber of Commerce secretary, Kerry Murphy, said there were no delays to the local performance, only a relocation. "We relocated our 'Lazy Sunday Afternoon' from the Piazza in town once the weather forecast and BOM satellite showed consistent rain for the entire time outdoor performances were scheduled," Ms Murphy said. "The GVBR provided a stage under cover and a sound technician in their large marquee which provided our musicians with a safe and dry space to perform for the participants at the Rec Reserve. "About 300 people at any one time were able to enjoy the music under cover. "It was a 'Lazy Wet Sunday Afternoon' although enjoyed by all who attended." Jenni Allan from Warragul was among the thousands of participants. "This is my first year in the GVBR, I've wanted to do it for years but this is the first opportunity I've had," she said, impressed by Myrtleford's welcome. Jackie and Kevin Reynard travelled all the way from Aberdeen in Scotland to participate in the cycling trek. "We've been to Sydney and the Sapphire Coast before riding in the GVBR," said Jackie. "Despite the heat yesterday, the logistics went really well. "This first day was all very well marshalled." "That made it very easy to perform the ride," agreed Jim Mortimer, their friend from Phillip Island. "Things are going very well." "We're looking forward to seeing a whole new part of the world we've never cycled in before," said Kevin. "It's also great to see the participation from the schools in Victoria; there were all these students on the ride today." "They're a credit to their schools," said Jackie. From Myrtleford, the participants rode to Wangaratta on Monday, to perform a loop ride via Taminick on Tuesday, before they set off for Mansfield this morning. Cyclists will enjoy a rest day tomorrow in Mansfield, before riding to Alexandra on Friday, Marysville on Saturday and finishing the 500km trek at Healesville and Yarra Glen on Sunday.
