Cyclists are set to take on some of the region’s tough hills in the Buderim9 Cycling Challenge on November 23, raising money for the Pyjama Foundation.
Starting at 5am and finishing at 8am, riders climb and descend nine of the area’s best hills, including Dixon, Coghill, Ballinger, Crosby Hill, Glenmount, Mons, Lindsay, Jones and Mooloolaba roads.
The Pyjama Foundation supports children and young people in foster care by helping them build learning and life skills, as well as confidence.
“Through our Love of Learning program, volunteers called ‘Pyjama Angels’ are recruited, screened, trained and then matched with a child in care and spend time with them once a week, focusing on learning-based activities,” a Pyjama Foundation spokesperson says.
“Pyjama Angels read books aloud with their child, play educational games and help children with their homework.
“Most importantly, the volunteers give foster children a chance to reach their life potential, despite a fragile start.
“Children in care have the lowest education outcomes nationally.
“By improving their learning skills, we are making a positive, life-long impact.”
Buderim9 is a very challenging ride, with only about half of the registered cyclists completing all nine hills within the three-hour time limit.
Some aim for seven or eight hills, while others take part in Buderim6 or Buderim3.
There are no road closures during the event and no traffic controllers to stop traffic.
The early 5am start means streets are quiet. All riders follow road rules, with about 30 marshals directing participants. Police motorbikes patrol the course and ‘motomedics’ are ready to assist if needed.
The course showcases some of the best aspects of Buderim Mountain, with views west to the ranges, south to the Glasshouse Mountains, north to Ninderry and Mt Coolum, and east to the ocean.
Riders ascend through dense eucalypt rainforest on Lindsay Road, while red-flowered poincianas are in full bloom this time of year.
Crowds of spectators cheer at the top of each hill, waving signs, shouting encouragement and sometimes just enjoying the riders’ struggle to the summit.
The layout allows spectators to move easily from one hill to the next and catch their riders multiple times.
In the months leading up to the event, training groups tackle different inclines to build strength and endurance, aiming to improve their times, complete all nine ascents or just add one more hill to their tally.
Buderim coffee shops become popular post-ride spots for debriefing, bragging or simply chatting over a flat white.
Ride, support the cyclists or soak in the atmosphere on November 23. Visit buderim9.com.au.
