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THE GREAT KARRI RIDE 2005

By Graeme Olsen


On the long weekend in March, the south west is again hosting one of Western Australia's premier sporting events - the Great Karri Ride, incorporating the Karri Cup.

The Great Karri Ride is an annual event for bike riders set in the heart of "Karri Country" (Pemberton to Northcliffe), that draws some of the best in Australia to ride 90km on some of the most beautiful forest trails you will ever see.

The event has a non-competitive and fundraising focus, but it does require personal skill and fitness in order to complete it. The course contains both touring and mountain bike elements, and will provide a challenge for those who wish to test themsleves against the clock.

Entrants can ride the event solo, or compete in teams of up to 10 people. Entrants are encouraged to arrange sponsors, with monies raised going to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Incentives to raise money include an entry (for every $10 raised) into the draw to win a trip to similar events in Queensland and Tasmania.

Warm -up short course events for kids are on Saturday afternoon, 5th March. Senior riders wishing to be eligible for the Karri Cup will also race later that afternoon.

 

The big ride starts in Pemberton on Sunday 6th March, and finishes in Northcliffe. And of course there's the wind-up party on Sunday night with food, celebration, live entertainment, and presentation of awards. There's too many things happening to list them all here, so check out the full schedule on the website at www.greatkarriride.com.au.

Even if you aren't a rider yourself, make sure you get down to Northcliffe just to enjoy the sights and atmosphere of the race. Most riders will have their own support teams, mechanics, and so forth, and Northcliffe will come alive for the event.

Entry forms can be downloaded from the website at www.greatkarriride.com.au. Entry is open to everyone over 14 years old. If you're not seriously fit make up a team of ten and enjoy the day.

The Great Karri Tree Ride is proudly sponsored by Be Active, CALM, the Northcliffe Visitor Centre, Fix Bikes and South West Life.


February 2005