$100,000 raised in Gran Fondo return

THE world-famous Great Ocean Road closed to vehicles as more than 4,000 cyclists took part in the long-awaited return of Amy’s Great Ocean Road Gran Fondo.

Amy’s Gran Fondo, cancelled for the past two years due to COVID-19, returned to the region on Sunday, with favourable weather making the 10th anniversary event a success.

Riders had the choice to take part in five races over both days on the weekend; Saturday’s Amy’s Gravel Fondo (45km), then Sunday’s Amy’s Gran Fondo Age Category (130km), Amy’s Gran Fondo Recreation Category (130km), Amy’s Medio Fondo (45km) and Amy’s Family Ride (14km).

“Despite the early conditions, it was good to see the sun come out and the Surf Coast provide great riding conditions as Amy’s Great Ocean Road finally returned,” Director of O2 Events, Kane Osler said.

“As riders crossed the finish line in Lorne, we received plenty of feedback of how much participants love this event with a distance for everyone.

“It was also special to be able to celebrate the 10th year of the event, which helped raise much-needed funds and awareness for the Amy Gillett Foundation.”

Lorne provided the start and finish point to all four road races on Sunday.

All fundraising in the lead-up to Amy’s Great Ocean Road Gran Fondo was redirected into cycling safety research, advocacy and educational campaigns and programs at the Amy Gillett Foundation.

In total, Amy’s Great Ocean Road Gran Fondo 2022 raised over $100,000 for the Amy Gillett Foundation.

Tynan Shannon (03:22:35) and Jenny Pettenon (03:43:25) crossed the finish line first for the male and female divisions in the headlining 130km Age Category Race.

Tynan Shannon was the first male to cross the finish line in the main ride with a final time of 03:22:35.

“Amy’s Great Ocean Road Gran Fondo is a great event and well organised,” Mr Shannon said.

“Thanks to everyone who has made the trip down for the event.

“It’s for a great cause and it’s so good to see so many cyclists enjoying the event.”

Pettenon said taking part in the ride is a major privilege, citing the crucial advocacy of the Amy Gillett Foundation.

“I had a fantastic ride today with a great crew,” Ms Pettenon said.

Jenny Pettenon concluded the main race as the first female across the finish line with a time of 03:43:25.

“It’s always a privilege to ride on fully closed roads. All cyclists know the danger and feat that come with riding in traffic.

“The foundation does such important work to create safer roads for us all. The event always has a great atmosphere and is consistently well-run. This year was no exception.”

Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton was excited to see the Gran Fondo return to the region as part of the council’s Events Grants Program.

“What an incredible way for so many elite riders, amateurs, families and locals to experience the spectacular Surf Coast region,” Mayor Stapleton said.

“Council is pleased to have sponsored this significant event and appreciates the benefits events like Amy’s Great Ocean Road Gran Fondo provide to our local economy.”

Amy’s Great Ocean Road Gran Fondo is locked in for September 9-10 next year.