One of Australia’s biggest bike rides to pass through the Bellarine

THOUSANDS of cyclists will ride through the Bellarine this weekend during Bicycle Network’s United Energy Around the Bay.

Cyclists taking part in the 135-kilometre Geelong-Melbourne ride will start at Rippleside Park in Geelong and travel to Queenscliff where they will jump on the ferry to Sorrento before heading to Melbourne via the iconic Beach Road.

The 250-kilometre loop and 300-kilometre ride will also pass through Geelong, Portarlington and Queenscliff. Geelong Melbourne is just one of 10 different ride options for the Sunday October 7 event, which is expected to attract 10,000 cyclists.

Now in its 26th year, United Energy Around the Bay has grown from an ambitious ride that circumnavigates Port Phillip to a rite of passage for Australian bike riders.

Families with children as young as one year old will be riding the 20-kilometre route, while cyclists up to 74 years old will tackle a gruelling 300-kilometre ride.

Bicycle Network general manager of events Rebecca Lane said it would be amazing to see people of all ages and backgrounds come together to celebrate bike riding.

“United Energy Around the Bay is more than just a bike ride, it’s when people unite to celebrate the freedom and joy of bike riding,” Ms Lane said.

“For some, it will be their introduction to an event on two wheels and a moment they will never forget, and for others a time to reminisce about their first ride or take on a new challenge.”

United Energy Around the Bay is also an opportunity to give something back, with riders raising money for event charity partner The Smith Family.

The Smith Family is aiming to raise $600,000 to help give an education to children in need and break the cycle of disadvantage.

Entries to United Energy Around the Bay are still open at aroundthebay.com.au and will be on sale until Sunday October 7.

Follow United Energy Around the Bay on Facebook at BicycleNetwork.