The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race have announced some exciting updates to the 2024 TAC People’s Ride.

Each year, the TAC People’s Ride programme is updated following careful consideration of participant feedback from previous events and a commitment to improving the experience for all participants for the January 27 event.

In 2024, there will be two distances on offer that provide riders of all abilities and experience levels to be part of the multi-day cycling festival: Long Course and Short Course.

Both courses are in reverse order to the 2023 event.

 

‘The Cadel Classic’

Long Course – 113km
Map: CLICK HERE
GPS Download: CLICK HERE
Start Time: 7:00am
Key Features:

  • The Long Course will take in Barwon Heads, Torquay, Moriac and Ceres before riders then choose whether to skip the Challambra climb or tackle the challenging ascent.
  • Some riders from previous years may recognise the use of Barwon Heads Rd which has now been redeveloped, providing a smooth surface and simple exit from the start line to the longer route.
  • This course takes in some of the most beautiful coastal views Victoria has to offer, as the course winds its way through Thirteenth Beach, Torquay and the iconic Bells Beach road before taking on the rolling hills of the Surf Coast Shire.
  • Aid Stations will be spread evenly across the course, located in Thirteenth Beach, Torquay, Moriac and at the top of Challambra.

 

‘Cadel’s Hometown’

Short Course – 59km
Map: CLICK HERE
GPS Download: CLICK HERE
Start Time: 7:30am
Key Features:

  • Responding to feedback from the 2023 event, the new 59km course provides a flatter experience and excludes the Challambra climb, making it achievable to a wider rider base.
  • This course begins with a loop around the Geelong Botanic Gardens before taking advantage of the amazing new surfaces offered on Barwon Heads Rd for the out-and-back ride to Cadel’s hometown of Barwon Heads.
  • Riders who have previously considered the 35km course should feel confident about attempting and completing this distance.
  • Riders seeking an enjoyable lapping course of the waterfront are encouraged to participate in the FREE Family Ride.

 

Registered to ride and wondering what’s next?

  • Any riders who signed up for the 125km event will be automatically allocated to the new Long Course (113km).
  • Any riders who signed up for either the 35km or 50km event will be automatically allocated to the new and flatter 59km.

Should this change of distance not suit you, please email [email protected] for further options.

 

Remember – Be safe. Be Seen. A message from the TAC:

While you’re out on the road remember to cycle safely.

  • Wear helmets and other safety related equipment
  • Stay visible, utilise lights and wear protective gear
  • Be aware, scan ahead of the road, look out for drivers and passengers getting in and out of parked cars
  • Ride predictably and avoid driver blind spots

A reminder for drivers:

  • Be spatially aware and give cyclists the space they require when passing on the road
  • Look for cyclists when opening car doors
  • Lower speed to help protect cyclists