Victoria Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty

Cause To Celebrate – Amy’s Gran Fondo A Rolling Success

Victor P Taffa

3,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities made history today by being the first to take part in the inaugural Amy’s Gran Fondo, completing a120km circuit featuring the iconic Great Ocean Road in the Surf Coast and Colac Otway regions.

Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty joined competitors and a huge crowd at the finish line to present awards to the winners of Australia’s first ever Gran Fondo cycling event – Amy’s Gran Fondo.

“Significant events like these are a great way to bring people together; not only to share their love of cycling but to help raise awareness and funds towards tackling important community issues.” Mr. Delahunty said.

“That’s the great thing about this European inspired event – it’s more than just a race.”

Mr. Delahunty said the Gran Fondo, Italian for ‘Grand Endurance’, featured staggered start times so the competitors of all ages and abilities had a chance to win a slice of the $20,000 worth of prizes on offer.

“Today competitors and fans alike have also been treated to a family-friendly atmosphere featuring live music acts and food stalls throughout the participating towns along the way as well as a weekend cycling expo at Lorne.” Mr. Delahunty said.

“Funds raised today will go towards the Remembering Amy for a Reason Program, which is taking the message of safe cycling and driver awareness of cyclists on our roads to schools throughout Australia.”

Mr. Delahunty commended all competitors and the Amy Gillett Foundation for establishing such a fantastic sporting event in honour of Amy Gillett who was tragically killed in a training accident in Germany in 2005.

“Events like Amy’s Gran Fondo are also a great opportunity to promote Victoria’s fantastic regional areas and natural beauty providing a significant boost to local sports, tourism, investment and community spirit.” Mr. Delahunty said.

“These reasons and more are why the Victorian Government is delighted to have provided $50,000 from its Significant Sporting Events Program towards Amy’s Gran Fondo.”

Mr. Delahunty also congratulated participating towns, councils and Victoria Police for their logistical support of the event including the diversion of traffic from local roads and highways so competitors could enjoy a vehicle-free ride.

“If today is any indication, Amy’s Gran Fondo is set to become a permanent fixture in Victoria’s road cycling calendar.” Mr. Delahunty said.