Simon Gerrans signs on as United Around the Bay ambassador

BICYCLE Network has announced three-time Grand Tour stage winner and Hendry’s bike store owner Simon Gerrans as an event ambassador for this year’s United Energy Around the Bay.

Gerrans will lead out the 135km Geelong to Albert Park course on October 8, starting from Cunningham Pier at Geelong’s waterfront and travelling through the Bellarine Peninsula, via ferry to Sorrento and the Mornington Peninsula, before riding along Melbourne’s Beach Road to the Albert Park finish line.

About 10,000 riders are expected to join the six different courses in the event, which is celebrating its 30th year in 2024.

So far, almost 400 riders have registered for the 135km ride, and 130 riders have signed up from Geelong and the surrounding region.

“I’m excited to be an ambassador for the 30th anniversary of Bicycle Network’s Around the Bay and supporting the event,” Gerrans said.

“Bicycle Network and United Energy Around the Bay aligns closely to Hendry’s values of fostering a supportive and inclusive cycling community.

“I hope plenty of Geelong locals join me on the ride. Hendry’s will provide mechanical support and assist riders as they pass through the Geelong and Queenscliff stopovers.”

Geelong start riders can join Simon by using the HENDRYSATB code upon entry to the 135km ride for 10 per cent off.

As event-appointed mechanical support, Hendry’s marquees will be located at the Geelong and Queenscliff stopovers to support riders’ bike and nutritional needs.

Gerrans said he and the Hendry’s team would also host free local training rides on September 14 and September 28 to ensure riders were well prepared for the event.

The rides will be split into two to three groups, each led by a member of the team.

For more information on the training rides and to register, head to hendrys.com.au/blogs/events/around-the-bay-geelong-ride-sunday-6th-september

For more information on United Energy Around the Bay, head to bicyclenetwork.com.au/rides-and-events/around-the-bay