In an impressive display of determination and skill, our Senior Pedal Prix Team managed to secure a stunning victory at the recent UniSA Australian HPV (Pedal Prix) Super Series 8 Hour Race at Tailem Bend.
The race, which took place over the weekend, saw the Senior Nazareth team take on the competition with only five riders due to several senior members being unavailable or unwell. The league, which usually categorises school teams, mandates a minimum of six riders for eligibility. Unfortunately, the shortage of participants forced the organising body to reclassify Nazareth into the ‘Community’ Category or the Open Class Under 20s. This reclassification meant that the team could participate as long as the members were under 20 years old, and there was no minimum requirement for the number of riders.
Undeterred by the challenge, our young cyclists rose to the occasion and demonstrated exceptional teamwork throughout the event. The five members of the team were Jude Hall (Year 12), Harrison Blackburn (Year 11), Lachlan Kennedy (Year 11), Daniel Ambler (Year 10), and Ben Adam (Year 9).
Despite unexpected weather conditions, which included a surprising 5mm of rainfall not forecast, the team managed to maintain their composure and had a remarkably clean race with minimal issues. Their tenacity and impressive performance led them to claim victory in the fiercely competitive Open C6 Category, finishing in first place and eight laps ahead of their nearest rivals! The team also achieved an impressive overall standing achieving an impressive 16th position of the 195 teams that participated on the day.
Two Junior Nazareth teams also competed extremely well and had a great time on the track.
This success at is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Pedal Prix students, as well as the guidance and support provided by our Pedal Prix team managers Mr Matt Rushworth, Mr Cameron Franks and Mr Dylan Penney-Smith.
Mr Matt Rushworth expressed his pride in the young cyclists and their stellar performance.
“This accomplishment gives our program great confidence, with a high volume of students coming through in the Junior years. We look forward to nurturing these talents and the potential of running four Year 7-12 teams next year, to accommodate the growing Pedal Prix interest among our students,” he said.
This success is a testament to Nazareth’s commitment to facilitating meaningful co-curricular opportunities for students. Read more about extra-curricular opportunities at Nazareth.
