So, what’s the deal with this ‘Bright Camp’ you keep advertising?
Bayside Triathlon Club (BTC) holds a training camp in Bright every year around early December – it’s a great weekend get-away to boost your tri season training, to connect socially and have a laugh. (It used to be in October, but it snowed a couple of times!)
Which rides do you do?
Typically, people might do 3 rides across 3 days (but feel free to join us and only do 1 or 2 of the rides). The rides often incorporate some of these: Mount Hotham, Mount Buffalo, Mount Beauty, Tawonga Gap, Happy Valley loop.
Do I have to ride mountains?
No! You can just come along for the social aspect if you want. Or you can ride along the flatter roads e.g. Bright to Harrietville, or along 150kms of sealed bike paths and rail trails. There’s also a mountain bike park nearby. Or you could run along the river. Or just go for a dip. Lots of options 😊
What if I want to have a go at climbing a mountain but I’m scared?
We’ll help you!
Rides will be suitably coordinated so that people don't get lost or left behind. Before the ride departs, we’ll put you in a sub-group with similar speed riders and agree key meeting points along the way. Although with most of the rides you can’t get lost very easily – you start at the bottom of the mountain and ride up to the top!
Which is the easiest?
Mount Buffalo in my opinion. And a lovely ride.
Is there a way of making the rides easier?
Lol, we could chop the top of the mountains off for you? But seriously, yes – for example if you wanted to tackle Mount Hotham you can either ride from the accommodation in Bright, or drive to Harrietville at the base of the mountain and cycle from there – I’ve done both options.
Also, you don’t have to cycle to the very top if it’s too much – as long as your group knows where you are and what you’re doing so we don’t lose anyone. For Mount Buffalo, again you can ride from the accommodation or drive to the bottom. One year when I had a duff knee my partner drove me to the top so I could ride the descent.
Do I need a road bike?
If you want to climb mountains, it’s the best bike to bring (rather than your TT, gravel or mountain bike etc.). But I’ve climbed Mount Buffalo on a mountain bike, and it was okay.
Should I do any preparation?
Riding some hills in preparation for the camp is a good idea e.g. 3-10 x Two Bays, 1-2 x Arthur’s Seat or a ride in the Dandenongs encompassing a few hills (like the ‘crucifix’ route).
What will the weather be like?
Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee the weather! Bring long gloves, a beanie/ear warmers, thick socks, long sleeves and a rain coat as well as gear for fine weather riding.
Where do you stay?
The club organises accommodation (e.g. either in one big house, or this year in 2 smaller apartments in the same location). Catering for the weekend is TBC, depending on final numbers. Dinner one night is usually takeaway pizza or pasta eaten all together, and another night we book a large table at a local pub after going to Bright Brewery.
What if I don’t know anyone that’s going?
No problem, you will by the end of the weekend! Plenty of us came along for our first time when we had just joined and hardly knew anyone in the club.
What’s the best thing about the weekend?
Um, a pie from gum tree pies in Bright after a hard ride. The camaraderie. Sitting in the sun at Bright Brewery overlooking the river. Making new friends. The achievement of conquering a hard climb. Getting fit for the tri season. Being in nature. Laughing at Clint’s crocs and Matt’s Oodie. Dancing at the local pub even though your legs are shot and you want to get up and ride again tomorrow? Loads of things 😊
How do you travel to Bright?
Well, you could ride, but it’s a very long way! People drive, and often car share. If you fancy coming, we can connect you with others for a lift.
What if I have another question you haven’t answered?
Shoot an email to Nat & Matt at secretary@baysidetriclub.com and we’ll happily answer it 😊
What if I want to sign up now?
Great! Please email Clint at clint@mercurypc.com
