A Celebration of Women’s Cycling the Focus of New Festival

Michelle Armstrong & Laura Rigby stop to take in the views of the High Country.

North East Victoria is already regarded as one of Australia’s premier cycling destinations, and now a new event is designed to further add to the region’s appeal.

The inaugural High Country Women’s Cycling Festival will get underway next April, with a focus on inspiring, encouraging and supporting more women to ride and experience the High Country by bike.

Festival organisers, Michelle Armstrong and Clare Holdsworth believe the women’s only festival will encourage riders to overcome hesitations about tackling road riding.

“Many female riders consider hills and mountains beyond their capability,” Clare said.

“We want to share our knowledge, build confidence, push boundaries and help women discover new ride destinations with new friends.”

Hannah-Leigh Wolki enjoying the challenge of riding in the High Country.

“It’s expected around 150 riders will take on the mountain challenge in the Buffalo Women’s Ride (Saturday 21 April), with experienced ride ambassadors providing lead-out support, riding tips and encouragement,” added Michelle.

“Our detailed planning, traffic management and safety protocols, under the guidance of VicRoads will ensure a safe, exhilarating and enjoyable experience for all riders.”

Off the road, the Festival will also soak up the High Country food, coffee and beverages, plus ride recovery and reward ‘after parties’ at local pubs and breweries.

There will also be bike mechanics workshops, an alpine yoga class, ride kit pop-up stores and lycra ‘fashions on the field’ prizes.

The High Country Women’s Cycling Festival is 20 -22 April, 2018

For more information and registration: www.hcwcf.com.au