Modus Oppyrandos

The Fleche Opperman is an all day team cycling event where 3,4 or 5 bikes (and their riders) constitute a team that is required to cover a minimum of 360k in 24 hours. To be successful at least 3 of the bikes must finish and the overall average speed must be at least 15kph.

 I had previously ridden the Oppy in 2008, 2009 and 2011. This year after some brief toing and froing I accepted an invite from Steve Xerri to ride with the Lairs. What a great bunch of guys. Lots of humour, a great course (I like it flat) and support that would be the envy of a pro cycling team!

The team was really well balanced as each person seem to have their particular talents that they brought to the group. Starting with Steve whose meticulous organisation meant that there was no surprises and we all knew when, what and how things would operate. Ken was strong and rode a steady pace all day and night. I learnt that Dave could put on and take off his rain jacket whilst on the move but at times is prone to drop things and Andy is kind of like a wise man, experienced in all aspects, always cool, calm and confident. Bill and Pete on support were simply magnificent. They had a feast laid out at every controle and the variety of great food meant that it was so easy to refuel for the next leg. I think I might have even  put on weight on this ride!
Thanks Steve, Andy, Ken, Dave, Bill and Pete I had a wonderful time riding the Oppy 2013.

Modus Oppyrandos

Bling

 For me  2011/12 was a pretty big Audax season and a step in my progression as a randonneur. One of the nice things I like about participating in Audax Australia rides and permanents (do it yourself rides) is the awards that you can earn for those long days in the saddle. Aside from the medals for individual rides the ones that I think are pretty neat are those that represent a series of rides or an accumulation over a year or more. The folk on the National Committee have done a fantastic job with the new award structure and in particular the design of the new awards. I was fortunate to receive a couple myself to sit on the shelf  alongside my 2010 Woodrup Award.

2012 Awards

2010 Woodrup