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Uraidla dads take to the track
August 18th, 2010
by Christie Legedza
A number of enthusiastic dads from Uraidla have formed a team to take part in the 24 Hour Australian International Pedal Prix which will take place in Murray Bridge in September.
Steve Bottroff, a member of the team, the Uraidla Scrubbers, said they were keen to get involved with the event after seeing their children take part.
“The kids have been involved for a number of years now so we thought we'd have a go ourselves.”
“It's a great opportunity for us dads to get out and get together.”
The team, which also includes Uraidla Primary School headmaster James Parkin, are already preparing for the endurance race.
“There have been a couple of training sessions. We have more coming up towards the end of September.”
Having competed in the six hour race at Victoria Park in July, Steve says they have some idea of what to expect and where they need to improve.
“We lost a lot of time in the changeovers last time so we might have to change our way of working.”
He also said that the Pedal Prix can be a rough competition, with some of the vehicles reaching speeds of 70km an hour.
“Accidents happen all the time, especially around the corners. You have to be very vigilant.”
Steve said the upcoming race at Murray Bridge will be a lot of hard work.
“I've had a look at the course on a map and showed the rest of the team and it's definitely more of a challenge.”
“Some of the guys will definitely be tested by the extra length. A few were absolutely knackered after three laps!”
Although the race continues for a very long 24 hours, Steve believes they will be able to stay motivated.
“We can't drop the ball. The kids will be there and they'll be onto us if we slack off.”
“We have to pace ourselves and we've got to stay ahead of them, so that's a good motivator.”
But winning isn't everything for the team of Dads who are expecting a good turnout from the school and local community.
“We'll be stoked to get off the bottom of the table!”
“As long as we don't come 19th we'll be happy,” he said.
Uraidla Primary School Principle James Parkin is also a part of the adult team.
“For my sins I'm in the adult team – living in the hope that another parent offers to ride.”
The Uraidla Primary School team are competing again this year.
James said the event is a big deal for the school and the children involved.
“Uraidla Primary has been involved for four years in both the Victoria Park and Murray Bridge races.”
“It's been quite a learning curve but all the other teams are always helpful and everyone watches out for the kids riding,” he said.
“The Pedal Prix organisation is amazing.”
About 16 students from years 5, 6 and 7 make up the Uraidla Primary School team.
“A strong camaraderie develops and the students end up running a lot of the activities – from rider changeovers to time keeping,” James said.
“They especially love the night riding at Murray Bridge; being on the same track as the “big guys
just adds to the excitement.”
“Families pay for the entrance fees and a bit of maintenance but we have been very grateful to the Uraidla Friendly Grocer who generously sponsored us this year which has helped with vehicle maintenance.”
The 24 Hour Australian International Pedal Prix takes place in Murray Bridge, September 16-19.
The New Fortnightly Adelaide Hills Weekender
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The New Fortnightly Weekender is an independent, innovative, good-news paper serving the Adelaide Hills and Mt Barker council areas. Founded in 1992, the paper is the leader in providing up-to-date, relevant lifestyle content. It seeks to maximise its appeal and relevance to readers and consumers on behalf of its advertisters.