One of Australia’s toughest bike events, and certainly the toughest hill climb, will be held in Canberra this weekend. The Fitz’s Challenge pushes cyclists to the utmost, a day-long feat of endurance that sees competitors ride for hundreds of kilometres and ascend the Brindabella mountains. It’s not for the faint-hearted.
The easiest route, the Tidbinbilla Challenge, is a mere three and a half hours, 50km long, 880 metres of climbing, up 11 per cent gradients. The routes get increasingly difficult, from 105km to 210km. And the more determined (or the more masochistic) can take on Fitz’s Extreme – a 255km, 13.5 hour Odyssey, entailing 5,000 metres of climbing.
“Fitz’s is no walk in the park,” says Pedal Power CEO, Ian Ross.
“Participants take part in the gruelling challenge for different reasons,” said Perdy Sutherland, Pedal Power’s event manager. “The most common? The exhilaration of pushing themselves beyond their physical limits to find new limits! For others, it’s about enjoying some intense exercise in a truly spectacular environment.”
She has completed Fitz’s Challenge – but not everyone completes the challenge the first time around. Some entrants return for a second or third attempt. More power to their elbows (and legs), then!
Fitz’s Challenge will be one of the region’s first major events after the lockdown.
When Canberra entered lockdown in August, Pedal Power had to move the event date twice. It was originally to be held on 3 October, then 24 October, and finally, 12 December.
“A looming threat of cancellation lingered over the Fitz’s Challenge all year, but in true Canberra style, the show will go on,” Mr Ross said.
“In many ways, the grit and determination needed to tackle those hills reflects the tenacity Canberrans have shown this year in spades.
“We’ve had closed borders, new Covid variants, and the wettest November on record, dampening riders’ ability to train.
“Those riders who have battled through pandemic, lockdown, and weekend after weekend of rain reflect that #KenBehrens spirit that has bonded our city this year.”
Mr Ross said he was delighted – and quietly relieved – that Sunday was predicted to have absolutely ideal cycling conditions, a top of 23 degrees, with no rain forecast.
Registrations are open right up to the event start time. People can register in person at the event hub at Stromlo Forest Park on Sunday 12 December from 5.30am until the event begins.
For more information, visit www.pedalpower.org.au/fitzs/
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