gtmandsager

I've recently been given an opportunity to "study" abroad in Australia for their Spring Semester (July-Nov). I have a number of other issues I need to weigh, but I wanted to see if anyone here knew about the cycling/racing community down under? I'm doing my own research online, but it hasn't been terribly fruitful yet, all I can find is stuff on UCI races. My brief bio: 24-year old law student, long time competitive swimmer, somewhat recently started riding recreationally, very recently started racing (5 races total, all collegiate, good results for beginner), totally hooked.

I'm making a list of pro/cons about going, and I'm fairly certain that the cycling/training I'll be able to do down there is a pro, but if there are other things I should know or consider it would be great to know in advance. Thanks.

DamianM

Where abouts in Australia are you looking ?
Cycling here is much like cycling anywhere else. We do it, we race. We probably don't have the numbers of some US cities, but it's still competitive.
If you say where you'll be someone can suggest some clubs in that area.

classic1

What Damien said.

You can also ask the question here https://www.cyclingforums.com/f126-au...w-zealand.html

They talk a lot of crap but will help you out!

Machka 

They have a great long distance cycling organization: https://www.audax.org.au/

As soon as I can go (again) ..............

DamianM

Yeah, like YOU have nothing to do with it

classic1

gtmandsager

I'd be at the University of Sydney. Thanks for pointing me to the other discussion board, I'll definitely take a look. I have to admit, I'm getting excited about the prospect and hopefully everything else works out so I can go.

DamianM

OK, your best options close to there are probably

Randwick Botany Cycling Club
Sydney Cycling Club
or Dulwich Hill Bicycle Club (I'm a member of this one, it's smaller and very friendly).

There is a park right near the city called Centennial Park, it's a bit of a bike mecca, you can usually find a bunch there most mornings and Tuesday or Thursday afternoons. All the clubs do a 90km training ride down the coast and back on a Sunday morning.

The best option for racing is crits every Saturday afternoon at a place called Heffron Park, not far from the city. It's organised by the Randwick Botany club, but open to all clubs. Road races are a little sparse close to the city, but you can see an event calendar here. https://nsw.cycling.org.au/

Hope that helps