Cycling
There are plenty of ways to get involved in cycling for veterans and their families, with options available for children as young as two.
“Anyone can have a go at mountain biking. My mental capacity changes when I ride. I absolutely love it. To have something, a community, outside of work is fantastic.”
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is a dynamic sport that involves a total body workout of riding a bicycle on different kinds of off-road trails. This can include vertical downhill sections, steep ascents, loose rocks, water crossings, tree roots. It requires endurance, speed, balance and technical skills to navigate through rough terrains. Unlike road bikers, mountain bikers pursue obstacles and see the world as a natural and challenging playground full of winding trails.
Road Cycling
Road Cycling is included in the Invictus Games. There are two main events; time trial and the criterium by competitors on bicycles, tandems, recumbents and hand cycles.
Time trial – competitors race individually against the clock over a single lap of the 2.4km loop. The winning cyclist is the one with the fastest time in their category.
Criterium – competitors will race within their category and complete several laps of the 2.4km course over a 30-minute duration. The next lap after 30 minutes has expired is the final lap. The first cyclist to cross the finish line is the winner. All other cyclists will be awarded a place as they cross the line on that lap.
BMX
BMX is one of the fastest growing sports in Australia. It’s one of the only sports where total family participation can take place.
Riders of all ages (from 2 to 50+) can compete in organised race meetings throughout Australia. The sport of BMX racing ranges from club level right through to state, national and world championship level for all ages.
“We want to be able to share with other veterans the mental health aspects of being out on your bike. You can ride alone, with a mate or you can join a group or club ride and be as social as you want. A good club provides you with a social network, surrounded by people enjoying the same activities as you.”
Ready to get into Cylcing?
Local
partners
Invictus Australia is partnering with Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA) to spread their mission of “developing and promoting mountain biking in Australia for the benefit and enjoyment of all”, which also extends to the veteran community.
To keep up to date with upcoming events and connect to your area’s Defence community join your local Facebook group.
If you are interested in a sport that isn’t listed on our website, get in touch. With our contacts in the sporting industry, we have avenues to explore to help you find your tribe.
If you are interested in cycling, or a sport that isn’t listed on our website, get in touch.
