Team Forge was proud to return for their second participation in the Hartley Cycle Challenge. The Hartley Cycle Challenge sees 260 cyclists and 120 support staff complete 450km from Canberra to the Snowy Mountains and return over 3 days. It is an excellent chance for Forge Advisory to get out on the road whilst also supporting a thoroughly deserving organisation.
The team had some new Rapha Custom kit this year to make sure they were looking extra fast on the bikes. The team launched at Capital Brewing Company on Friday night. This provided the first opportunity for the entire team to get together and share a couple of beverages. Some of the team supporters and sponsors were in attendance, and road captain Andy took the opportunity to thank all our supporters.
Day 1 kicked off at Canberra Greyhound Club. After a few last minute checks the team set off for the 175km to Jindabyne. The team had excellent conditions for their ride to Jindabyne, and aside from a puncture, arrived there in good order. The boys took full advantage of the services on offer at the overnight stop of Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre. Some of the team took the time to get a massage, while the whole team and support crew made sure to rehydrate ready for the following day!
Day 2 is the Queen stage of the Hartley Cycle Challenge. Only 84km but includes a 32km climb at 3%, covering almost 1000m of vertical up to Charlotte’s Pass. The team rolled out with a little fatigue in the legs but warmed up quickly on the lower slopes.
There is some conjecture as to which team member finished the ascent first. Some reports pointed to a photo finish between Dan and Stefano, whilst both riders maintained they have crested the climb in front. There was some hope that there would be photo or video evidence from the top of Charlottes Pass would settle the dispute, but alas there was no conclusive image.
Day 3 began with not only some tired legs, but a solid block headwind for the team all the way to Canberra. Despite the headwind the boys still managed to average 26km/h all the way home, no small feat considering the previous 2 days riding.
Forge would like to thank its major sponsors; HAZ – Hazardous Area Specialists, EXMAN, Elston Partners, and Hospcotch Blue. We would also like to thank the local businesses who supported the Team Forge Raffle; Rolfe Classic BMW, Four Winds Vineyard, ARC Remote Coaching, Shaw Wines, and Sharwood Hampers.
Finally, Forge would like to thank the friends and family who supported the team, both monetarily and by giving the support and freedom to pursue 3 days cycling with their mates.
Whilst the cycling is a great excuse for the team to get out for the weekend, the real reason the team does this is to support Hartley Lifecare. The team raised over $23,000 as part of the $593,000 raised over the weekend. This goes a long way to ensuring that Hartley Lifecare can continue to do the excellent work they do in assist people with disabilities and their families in the ACT area.
