St. John of God Hospital, Lycra and the Bulls

It may be the first time readers have seen all of the above used in the one heading but as in many parts of Australia, cycling is becoming popular in our region. From humble beginnings with a peloton of 3 riders (Neil Earl, Max Montgomery and Keith Mugford) in 1996, there are now sufficient cyclists in Cowaramup to have formed the Cowaramup Cycle Club, aka the mighty Bulls. For the unsuspecting visitor this can lead to traumatic experiences. Like driving along local roads and suddenly encountering the bunch of supremely fit cyclists, thundering along at speeds sometimes exceeding 20kph. Like sitting next to them in a local coffee shop after they’ve finished the ride. Or, perhaps worst of all, it might just be the sight of old fat blokes in Lycra?

Please be assured this inconvenience, some might say suffering, is not in vain. Through the untiring efforts of many but especially Brendon Morrison, the Bulls President and key organiser and his wife Kathryn, local cycling events are now raising funds for various charities. This year the Lighthouse to Lighthouse Ride from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin raised money for St John of God Hospital; the Tour de Gracetown raised funds for a new incubator for new born babies at Margaret River Hospital; and The Delirium 24 Hour Ride raised funds and awareness for the Lung Institute of WA. Any readers who are cyclists are welcome to participate in the events or any local rides and encouraged to check them out on the web or by emailing direct to the Tour of Margaret River email – tomr@hotmail.com.au . Who knows? It might provide just the right balance – some gentle exercise to wear off the effects of the wine and food experience of Margaret River?