Wet ride fails to disappoint at Around the Bay

TOUGH conditions and wet weather weren’t enough to hold back the thousands of cyclists in this year’s United Energy Around the Bay ride.

Taking place on Sunday, the annual event drew more than 6,000 riders of all ages and abilities across five different categories.

While the rain set in from mid-morning energy levels remained high across the event, with riders crossing the finish line with mud and smiles.

In the 220km Classic Ride participants made their way from Melbourne’s Albert Park around the bay into Geelong and Queenscliff before catching the ferry to Sorrento and completing the circuit.

Riders participating in the 135km event got their start in Geelong and joined those in The Classic across the ferry and finished in Albert Park.

Bicycle Network chief executive officer Alison McCormack said United Energy Around the Bay was always a spectacular day.

“This year riders tackled a dramatic wet ride with good cheer and enjoyed entertainment, vendors and food trucks at the Albert Park event village.

“We were thrilled to see such a range of ages and abilities on bikes and can’t wait to do it all again in 2026.”

Participants included sporting celebrities, recreational cyclists and kids on balance bikes, with the youngest rider just a few months old and the eldest 93.

Funds raised from the event were donated to charity partner, Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision, funding vital research for bone marrow failure syndrome and support for families.