Leslie Slingsby first signed up for the Great Victorian Bike Ride to prove her husband and two sons wrong.
Those three had previously taken part in the ride and didn’t believe she would be up for the challenge.
“I wasn’t a cyclist so they didn’t think I would be able to do it – it was like a red rag to a bull,” Ms Slingsby said.
In the lead-up to her first ride, Ms Slingsby took part in preparation outings organised by a group of cyclists known as We are Right Behind You, a group of experienced cyclists who ride among inexperienced Great Victorian Bike Ride participants and help them if they run into difficulties.
Ms Slingsby, a Doreen resident, will tackle the nine-day ride for the third time this November.
She said the ride had become an enjoyable experience.
“This year, I don’t need a challenge,” she said. “It’s nine days away from the family, no TV, no nothing. I enjoy it, but it is hard work. So make so sure you do some training if you are taking part.”
This year’s ride will run from November 25 to December 3 and cover more than 500 kilometres from Wilsons Promontory to Trafalgar.
Details: greatvic.com.au
