Families gathered at the University of Southern Queensland’s Ipswich campus last week for the Heritage Karalee Ipswich100 charity bike ride.
This year marked the 25th edition of the iconic charity bike ride to raise funds for important local causes.
The weather was overcast and drizzly but that did not dampen the enthusiasm of the participants, with 542 riders turning out for the ride.
Starting and finishing at Ipswich’s University of Southern Queensland campus and passing through farming land and bushland of the Scenic Rim with spectacular views to the Great Divide and Cunningham’s Gap.
Cyclists had a choice of three routes, from the 160km to 100km and 50km rides and is a great initiative of the Lions Club of Brisbane West, in association with the Ipswich Hospital Foundation.
This year, the Heritage Karalee – Ipswich100 was very much a family affair, with multi-generations of riders taking part, including grandfather-and-grandson team, Connor and Evan.
Sixteen-year-old Connor, who joined grandad Evan, experienced a heart-stopping moment just before the ride started when he needed to make a quick pit stop at 99Bikes with just a couple of minutes to spare.
Fortunately, he was able to get back on the road, joining Grandad Evan before the pair sped off to take the lead.
Also in the mix was a three-generation race trio with grandfather Bruce and 12-year-old Aidan taking on the 50km fun filled trip and, while Steve took on the Imperial 160km challenge.
The Heritage Karalee – Ipswich100 is famed as south-east Queensland’s friendliest, most scenic, and best-catered ride.
The Lions Club of Brisbane West place emphasis on rider safety and support with directional signage, course marshals and rest stops staffed by volunteers with complimentary refreshments and sunscreen.
The ride received strong support from volunteers in Ipswich and the Scenic Rim including the regions supporting Lions Clubs, with each receiving a share of the funds raised for their own local projects.
The ride also raised funds for Ipswich Hospital Foundation, SES, Moggill Men’s Shed, Rover Scouts Indooroopilly Rovers.
