A big feature of the Wharf to Waves is the annual Bega to the Beach bike ride.
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Online entries are now open for the 30km ride from the Tarraganda fire shed to the Tathra Surf Life Saving Club with everyone encouraged to join in.
Ride director Richard Gallimore said the course takes riders over Dr George Mountain “through some of the most breathtaking bushland scenery the Sapphire Coast has to offer.”
Last year welcomed almost record entries with 147 registered riders taking part.
With idyllic conditions anticipated next weekend, organisers are hoping to break 150 riders for a record event.
Mr Gallimore has one key motto about the event “this ride is not a race!”, he says there are always a few competitive riders but for a majority it’s a social cruise.
Introduced last year were staggered starts aimed at improving flow from the starting line and compressing the finish at the Surf Club.
Casual riders were released about 10 minutes earlier than the more serious or competitive riders, Mr Gallimore said, while the two fields will be split by 15 minutes this year. .
All of the entrants are welcome to self-seed with Gallimore offering some light-hearted suggestions.
“If your bike costs more than two-grand, if you’ve ever done a mountain bike race or you’re wearing lycra, you’re probably in the quicker group,” he said with a laugh.
Gallimore said safety is paramount for organisers.
Bunting and markers will direct riders to ensure everyone is on the correct trail, while there will also be roaming first aid patrols along the course.
Some sections of the ride are on open public roads and fire brigade lookouts will help ensure safety for riders.
Officials also said there are some great prizes on offer, which are presented by random draw at the finish.
Online entries close at 4pm on Friday, January 19, but if you’re waiting to see what the weather is doing you can always register in person.
Officials said there would be registrations at the Fire Shed from 3.30-4.30pm on the day of the ride with most of the entries expected on the day.
There is also a bus service takes competitors into Bega while their bikes can be transported by truck on a purpose-built trailer. A $20 fee applies.
Officials warned this is a “first in best dressed” situation with a limit on numbers - so if you want a lift you will need to get in early..
The bus leaves the Tathra Surf Club at 4pm on Saturday, the bikes need to be loaded at 3.30pm.
For more info or to register visit www.wharf2waves.com.au.