Kathryn Holloway
Winner of the Sydney Altitude Training Centre Best New Rider

Kathryn has shown interest in doing one of our events since we launched in March 2008. She has come to many a finish and shared many coffees with me saying “I must do one of your rides love”. I had heard the expression that many times that whilst I got the point that she was keen, I wasn’t sure when or if it would ever happen … until she registered this year for the Hunter Valley Grape Ride.

Only 12 months or so earlier, Kathryn had purchased a nice pink road bike she excitedly called the Diva but with a variety of other sporting commitments the Diva had spent more time in her house than outside it. You see Kathryn is not a cyclist; she is a runner; and a dam good one; recently coming 17th female to cross the line in the Herald Half Marathon at a time of 86.26. Kathryn is also a newly accredited personal trainer and between training clients and smashing herself, she had little time and on some days little energy to dust the bike off and to give it a crack.

Team Positive Fitness

Kathryn does very little in life in halves, so when she moved away from a very successful corporate career into personal training she made the time to create a brand … and established positive fitness. This of course meant she now had a brand she could market into our event and an opportunity to enter the Grape Ride not simply as an individual but as a team … enter team member Rob Fraser.

Together, they now had a reason to make the time to get fit and to strategise how they were going to raise funds without having access to a massive corporate network.

They set themselves a team fundraising target of $2,000; dusted off their bikes and began what was really a journey into the unknown.

1. How do you train for an event you’ve never done ?
2. How do you ensure you are fit enough to finish ?
3. How do you raise thousands of dollars ?

The answers to questions 1 and 2 are really pretty simple.

1. Get on your bike and ride with some mates
2. Get in a spin class and extend yourself, and
3. Take 2 large table spoons twice daily of harden up

And that they did … however, somehow between training for the event and getting to the start line, Kathryn then asked me “what peloton should we go in lovie” ? Based on Kathryn’s fitness pedigree and having previously been smashed by her riding up McCarrs in the big ring, I said “peloton 1“.

Knowing that both Kathryn and Rob had done the miles and that fitness was not going to be an issue, the challenge for them now was how to blend into an experienced peloton without having the same level of experience.

1. What would they do if they got a flat ?
2. Would they know how to draft the rear van ?
3. Would anyone in the peloton help them ?

Whilst at times lessons were probably learn’t on the bike, it is fair to say they both answered the call; at times chatting ever so briefly to Elvis and learning a little bit about the importance of applying regular chamois cream before the start of each day.

For those of us that ride regularly, it is sometimes all too easy to forget that at some point we didn’t know what it is we now know and it is only through experiences that we learn and grow. If you do the level of preparation that Kathryn and Rob did leading up to the Grape Ride then you position yourself well to learn fast on tour.

Day 2 was the 5 k Team Time Trial and a great opportunity for Team Positive Fitness to join forces with exT1D (Allan Bolton and Stephen Borness) and 3 individual riders Julie Graham, Andrea Lourey and our infamous team doctor, Dr Paul Russell.

Team Datacom was always going to be the team to beat in this event and won the challenge in a time of 8.13 mins and whilst the Positive Fitness Team (Called for the purpose of the race “Bikesexuals”) came in 8th in a time of 9.48 mins, the gap in real terms was quite small.

Now with all that said, both riders crossed the finish line on day 3 very emotional … shedding the odd tear when greeted by family and friends … reflecting back on what they had physically accomplished and how they had shared it together. When I questioned Rob on whether he had in fact shed the tear he answered me by saying “just after Peats Ridge and prior to the KOM up Brooklyn, my legs were starting to cramp up and to be honest mate I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to ride in and see my wife and kids … and then at Brooklyn I got a second wind and felt fantastic”.

Now anyone that has done an endurance event of any sort will know exactly what that moment feels like … when you think you’re out of the game and cant go any further and like a gift from god, the pain goes away and at the finish of the event when the tears hit your face and your struggling to understand why … thats the moment that defines why you entered the event and why you completed it and why you will need to come back next year to do it all over again.

It’s not all about the bike !

BUT, for me as an event organiser, it’s not just simply about the participation in the ride and how people achieve the sporting hurdle. The hurdle that I am most interested in is:

1. how hard will they go to raise funds ? and
2. What level of commitment will they have to do the very best they can ?

When I award someone the best new rider’s jersey I do so for very good reason and awarding it to Kathryn was a no brainer. The target they set of $2,000 was smashed with a fundraising contribution of $4,968 and thats pretty impressive when you no longer have access to a corporate network and its the first time you have set yourself such a high fundraising benchmark. So how did they do it ?

Kathryn and Rob pulled together around 70 of their mates (that was the first hurdle gone) and hosted a dinner at a local Italian Restaurant. They door knocked the local community of Mosman and collected some fantastic Auction and Raffle Prizes. They sold tickets to the dinner at a price people were more than willing to pay and went to work on ensuring people had a great night; were well primed by the time the auction came around; and utilised the services of 2 gun ticket sales agents in Diana Raice and Sandie Barber; who I think on the night did 2 sweeps of the tables cracking jokes and helping to sell around $2,000 in ticket sales.

Now I have been to plenty of charity dinners and the success of the night has always been determined by the preparation;  it always gets back to the people staging the event; whether they invited the right people and whether they succeeded in connecting them to the cause; it always gets back to the level of enthusiasm and belief of the hosts and this is where in my view Kathryn and Rob really excelled.

There is nothing better in this world than for me to see people within our network pick up the baton and believe whole heartedly in what we are doing; trusting where the funds are going; how the funds will be used; and personally taking on the fight to raise funds. That is the moment in all our tours where I, as the event owner, sit back and say “we got something special here”. Because it is at that moment when you know we are no longer just making a difference to the lives of kids that need support, but we are making a difference to those around us by giving them an opportunity to give to something they can personally connect with and afterwards feel good about … in essence, its at that moment where I know we are sharing the love and making the world a better place.

So Kathryn (being the Team Leader of Positive Fitness and the least experienced cyclist out of her team) won the Sydney Altitude Best New Riders Jersey and Kathryn received the prize with the same level of enthusiasm both her and Rob brought to the entire event.

Congratulations to the both of them and let them be an example of how to get your teeth into something; have fun; and make a very big difference to the lives of your family, friends and the kids our events go to support.

Prizes include:

Ist Prize:

Argon 18 Gallium Pro Team Edition SRAM RED FFWD Wheels, Speedplay Pedals, Carbon Cages Value $9,999

2nd Prize

Bike Bug Cycle Kit …. Jersey, Bibs, Socks Value $350

3rd Prize

Speedplay Zero Cro-Mo Pedals Value $250

Show your support and give yourself a chance of taking home something very special courtesy of our friends at Bike Bug.

The Humour Foundation is a national charity founded in 1997 by performer Jean Paul Bell and General Practitioner Dr Peter Spitzer. The primary aim of The Humour Foundation is to promote and deliver the health benefits of humour. The core project is the Clown Doctors™, bringing support, fun and laughter to sick children in hospital.

There is no better way to understand the benefits of what programs like these are to seriously ill kids than hearing a child’s story and how laughter brought them happiness and how their relationship with the Clown Doctors gave them hope. The Humour Foundation is entoures Primary Beneficiary and we are proud to be associated with the Clown Doctors program.

READ HARMONY’S STORY

Day One Adelaide to Meningie 163 K

The day starts with a sensational climb into the infamous and very beautiful Adelaide Hills. The first 35 k of the 165 k journey is about as good as it gets with riders very quickly celebrating over a coffee and muffin in the quaint town of Hannsdorf. I am not sure of the history of this town but it would be criminal to ride through without having a stop. Riders will then ride a further 80 k or so to the small town of Tailem Bend where lunch awaits at the 113 k mark. From there, it is a pretty easy (subject to wind) 50 k through Salt Flats to Meningie. Riders will bed down at one of 3 motels in Meningie (The Waterfront / Lake Albert and Meningie Caravan Park).

Check Out The Videos For Day One.

Day Two Meningie to Robe 190 K

Day two takes riders a massive 190 K to Robe. The route is flat and takes riders along the coast of Adelaide, courtesy of the Princes Hwy. The route is at times open to the elements but in the main should be flat and fast.  The scenery takes riders through Salt Flats, Vineyards, Pine Forrests and Rural Farms. First stop is the Salt Creek Road House for muffins and coffee at about 60 k; then onto Kingston for a well earned lunch at either the Kingston Bakery or Crown Inn Hotel (will confirm shortly) at around the 140 mark. Riders will bed down for the night at one of 2 motels in Robe (The Best Western Melaleuca and the Blue Haven).

Check Out The Videos For Day Two.

Day Three Robe to Casterton 161 K

Day three riders will ride a fantastic 161 k to Casterton. The route is once again extremely flat however, this time, riders are protected from the wind thanks to tree lined streets. Riders will need to carbo load as there is no where to stop for coffee or muffins until lunch at the world famous Penola Bakery at 108 k. At around 25 k out of Casterton riders will cross the Victorian border and the country side becomes even more protected, fast and flat. Riders will bed down for the night at the magnificent Albion Hotel / Motel.

Check Out The Videos For Day Three.

Day Four Casterton to Warrnambool 190 K

Day four riders will ride 191 k from Casteston to Warrnambool. The route is once again flat with a few undulations that the peloton “should”, comfortably roll over. The route includes some truly great rural country side but limited cafe options for stoppages. As such, riders will need to bypass once again coffee and a muffin and replace with an early (but more than satisfying) lunch at around 80 k at Kings Bakery at Hamilton (Home of the Famous Kings Pie). This will be the only major stop for the day before riding the remaining 110 k route.  Riders will bed down for the night at the Best Western Olde Maritime Motor Inn.

Check Out The Videos For Day Four.

Day Five Warrnambool to Apollo Bay 170 K

Nothing I write will do justice to Day 5. I could only liken driving on the Great Ocean Road to maybe running on the turf of the MCG. It is sacred ground; the cycling mecca; and all for very good reason. Day 5 is where we say goodbye to the flat country and hello to a few hills. Its the day some of you will wonder why you registered for TDK and ride purely for the kids. But for all of you, it will be a special day and a day when you (together with some great mates) came face to face with the elements of the Great Ocean Road. Riders will bed down for the night at the Seaview Motel and Apartments.

Check Out The Videos For Day Five.

Day Six Apollo Bay to Queenscliff 120 K

Day six will take riders further along the Great Ocean Road from Apollo Bay to Lorne. Due to the floods impacting Victoria at present and closure to parts of the Great Ocean Road I haven’t been able to see this section of road but, from all discussions with the locals it provides some of the best coastal riding the country has to offer. Riders will stop for morning tea at Lorne (a trendy beach suburb at the 60 k mark) before climbing once again along the undulations of the Great Ocean Road; first to Torquay (80 k mark) for a quick stop and then to Queenscliff (120 k mark). Riders will bed down for the night at the classic Vu Grand Hotel; an historic hotel centrally located in the heart of Queenscliff.

Check Out The Videos For Day Six

Day Seven Queenscliff to Melbourne 130 K

WOW WOW WOW. Day seven is in my view one of the best routes I have seen outside of Europe. It basically starts with a 40 minute ferry ride to Sorrento and then the following:

1. 8 ks of Sorrento coastline
2. A wonderful rural route along St Andrews & Gunnamatta Beaches
3. The legendary Mornington Peninsula National Park
4. Beautiful towns and country side such as Flinders, Shoreham, Red Hill and Arthurs Seat
5. Port Phillip Bay Coastline of Dromana, Safety Beach, Mount Martha, Mornington, Mount Eliza, Frankston etc
6. The legendary BEACH ROAD and suburbs from Parkdale to St Kilda

This is the perfect final day to an epic journey. Whilst riders will need to climb a few hills in the morning, all the hills for the day are over in the first 50 k and by the time riders stop for coffee and some food at Red Hill Bakery. Riders will then have a 2.5 k switch back descent at Arthurs Seat (caution zone) and then it’s flat all the way to Melbourne along roads that I reckon offer some of the best cycling in the country. The final destination is still being decided however for the purpose of my reccie I stopped at St Kilda for a wine (or 3). If we progress further the route will be 130 +.

It’s been a privilege doing the reccie for the 2011 Tour De Kids event and riders should be very excited about the ride. Congratulations to the TDKs committee; with a special mention to Tom Handwick; the route designer.

Check Out The Videos For Day Seven

Watch the clip below.

This year’s Kingscliff Cycle Classic produced an outstanding success raising an incredible $234,000 for the many children and their families desperately in need for our charities support.

Without your passionate support of our charity, the purchase of urgently needed medical equipment which is an integral part of our Family Support Program in Queensland would not be possible.

Critically injured children and their families in Queensland will know that the dreadful journey they are now on will be shared by you in the spirit of our charity through the purchase of life saving urgently needed medical equipment, by employing Child Life and Music Therapists and will help to implement a Family Support Coordinator in Brisbane in the near future. You are truly making a difference to the lives of many children and their families by supporting them in their journey from intensive care to recovery.

In 2011 we look forward to seeing you again on our cycling events as we travel through beautiful countryside in our great nation. If you would like to find out more about upcoming Day of Difference events and activities please join our mailing list by emailing enquiries@dayofdifference.org.au.

We thank you again for your ongoing support. We wish you a safe and happy Christmas, and look forward to seeing you again soon.

Sincerely,

Ron Delezio

Executive Chairman & Founder

Our History

Entoure commenced in March 2008 and has raised over $1.2 million across its events. Whilst boutique cycling events remain key to what we do, we have started to trial a series of community based events; with our main focus being to test our Wigs4Kids concepts.

Our Network

Currently on average each of our cycle events have attracted around 60 or so riders however, we are looking to increase participation rates to around 100 + throughout the later part of 2010 / 2011.  Our network currently consists of approximately:

1) 60 + Organisations
2) 300 + Riders
3) 3000 + Donors

What Have We Funded ?

Funds have been used to purchase:

1) Audio visual equipment at the Paediatric Simulation Centre at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead,
2) Emergency equipment for the Royal Children’s Hospital at Brisbane, and
3) To support the Day of Difference Foundations Family Support Program.

What Will We Continue To Support ?

The Day of Difference Foundation have moved their attention into Family Centered Care and have developed a Family Support Program. Funds from the 2010 Entoure Cycle Classic Hunter Valley supported this initiative and moving forward, the majority of our events will support this program.

Thanks

Thank you to all who have participated and supported our events to date and given so generously. We hope we can continue to provide a reason to support critically injured kids and give you all a reason to actively participate.

Registrations opened last week for the Entoure Kingscliff Classic. This October we’ll be riding 400 k over 3 days from Brisbane to Kingscliff and then Byron to support the day of Difference Foundation.

I got my registration in and am looking forward to the event. The challenge between now and October is to get as many quality k’s into the legs in  preparation for the 145 k – 165 k we’ll be riding on day 1.

Weekends are the best time for me to get some decent rides in and today was no exception. Today was my first ride over the new Gateway Bridge (or the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridge to be precise). The bridge has been open to bikes and pedestrians for a couple of months now.

We set off from Racecourse Rd and headed for the Gateway. The first challenge was finding the way on to the path. Maybe it’s still early days and the signage is incomplete, but it was definitely no easy task finding the entrance.

Once on the path though it’s a nice steady climb up the rise to the peak. We passed a couple of pedestrians heading down carrying cameras, obviously up there to catch the sunrise. From the top the view is quite spectacular. The lookout at the top has a glass pane through which to look east. The rest of the way the wire fence is around 2 m high on top of the concrete wall.

I’d heard that the speed limit for bikes is set at 10 k/h. Coming down the hill you’d need to be braking pretty hard to keep to that limit. Needless to say, we coasted down at a reasonable clip. From the bottom of the bridge it was off to Wynnum and then a standard return to Ascot via Southbank.

George Zdanowicz

Entoure is looking to test a new charitable concept called Wigs 4 Kids and is looking for people to wear a wig, to have fun and to raise funds for the Day of Difference Foundation.

REGISTRATIONS WILL OPEN SOON.

The Wigs 4 Kids Day Challenge

Challenge yourself to wear a wig for say 1 hour, 4 hours, or 8 hours and get your network to sponsor you. Make it a day to look like your idol; your hero; a rock star; or a model. Bring back the Mullet, The Beehive, The Bob, or The Afro. Most importantly, let Wigs 4 Kids Day be your Day of Difference and in transforming your looks and having a bit of fun help transform the lives of critically injured kids and their families.

What Can You Do On Wigs 4 Kids Day ?

1. Host a Wigs Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch, Fashion Show
2. Give out a prize for the funniest, sexist, best wig
3. Recognise the top fundraiser within your office and make them feel special
4. Catch public transport, do a gym class, the bridge climb … wearing your wig
5. Make the day your day to have a laugh and save lives
6. Take an amazing photo of yourself somewhere special and share it with your network

The Day of Difference Foundation

The Day of Difference Foundation is a charitable organisation dedicated to working for critically injured children. Critical injuries come without warning; often impacting how children live for the rest of their lives. Involve your family, friends and work colleagues and together make Wigs 4 Kids Day a fun day that saves lives and supports the Day of Difference Foundation.

To enter Wigs 4 Kids is simple.

1/ Register for the event (it’s free).

This will provide you with your own personal username and password for the entoure website; where you will be able to manage and control your very own personalised hero page. REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN.

2/ Grab a wig.

You can either purchase, hire or if your really creative, make a wig. The choice is yours.

To FIND A WIG STORE nearest to you, visit YELLOW PAGES ONLINE.

To BUY A WIG ONLINE, visit the WIG OUTLET.

The Wig Outlet is Australia’s favourite online wig website and renowned for their cheap prices, quality wigs and prompt customer service. A portion of all sales from the Wigs 4 Kids campaign will be donated by The Wig Outlet to the Day of Difference Foundation. In order to track the Wigs 4 Kids campaign, please insert the below mentioned tracking code in the Gift Voucher / Discount Voucher of the online order form.

3/ Post a photo of yourself on your entoure hero page

Simply use your personal username and password to log into the entoure website and gain access to your hero page. Edit your profile and upload a photo of yourself wearing your wig.

4/ Create or join a team

Once you have logged into the entoure website you will have access to the entoure launchpad. From here, you can create a team and or join an existing team. If you have existing links to the organisations and teams entering this years Kingscliff Cycle Classic, simply click on join a team and click join this team near their corporate logo on the team directory page. If you don’t have existing links, create a new team. This will link funds raised on your individual hero pages and display them under a team category and allow your networks to either sponsor you as an individual and / or your team. This is handy if your sponsors are familiar with other members in your team and are torn with whom to support.

5/ Send your entoure hero page to your friends and family and ask them to sponsor you

Once you have posted a personal photo of yourself on your hero page, share your event on facebook, tweet the event over twitter or email your hero page to your friends. You will find easy call to action buttons on your hero page.

Share this campaign with your family, friends and work colleagues and come join the fun and together let’s help save the lives of critically injured kids.

To register for the Kingscliff tour, click here.

Adania, 3 years, Hypotonic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy

Little Adania doesn’t give up easily. In the past 6 months alone she has battled both bacterial and viral pneumonia, as well as the daily challenges that come from her complex condition.

During her most recent hospital admission, Adania’s mum, Kate, became very concerned. “She wasn’t herself and her breathing wasn’t normal,” she said. “We’d already spent one day in Emergency and a couple of nights on the wards and Adania was on the maximum amount of oxygyen, as well as antibiotics. She had nasal prongs and a face mask to deliver the oxygen, but it became clear that she needed a more sophisticated system to help her breathing.”

Doctors moved Adiana to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and placed her on the Bipap Vision non-invasive ventilator. “This ventilator provides respiratory support in a relatively non-invasive way,” said Dr Tony Slater, Director of PICU. “Traditionally we have used breathing tubes placed through the vocal chords as a means of providing respiratory assistance and children require sedation to tolerate this,” he explained. “With this ventilator, respiratory assistance is provided via a snugly fitting mask and children do not need nearly as much sedation to tolerate the help. As Adania recovers it is much easier to give her breaks from the ventilator, and gradually reduce her time on it.”

Adania’s response to the ventilator was a great relief for Kate. “Since being on the ventilator her oxygen levels have been maintained and her chest x-rays show better expansion of the lungs,” she said. “As a parent, it’s much less scarier to see this ventilator being used than the traditional tubes and sedation.”

To Our Riders, Sponsors and Supporters

On behalf of Ron Delezio (CEO and Founder of the Day of Difference Foundation) and myself, thank you for supporting us. Whilst the Day of Difference Foundation, and for that matter Entoure, have focused their attention on supporting critically injured kids, the above story shows that purchasing emergency equipment for the ICU goes way beyond simply helping kids with critically injuries. All kids admitted to the ICU benefit from what we are doing.

Note: the above piece of equipment was funded from the proceeds raised from the Entoure Cycle Classic Noosa 2009.

Kent Williams
Director Entoure

For just $40, someone is going to take home the incredible 2011 Merida Scultura Evo valued at $10,000. Buy yourself a ticket and share this amazing opportunity with your network.

All proceeds will be directed to the Day of Difference Foundation.

Read more.

Cyclists keen to exercise the whole body, often do more than just ride a bike; some do yoga; some hit the gym; and some paddle surf ski’s. I have just got back into paddling after a decade or so and the paddling world has changed since I last bought a ski / kayak. How do you know what to buy ? How do you know what’s right for you ?

The main players include EPIC, FENN and THINK. All make fantastic ski’s and all deserve a test paddle. However, buying a surf ski is nothing like buying a bike. Price determines the weight of a ski; how it will handle; how fast and sensitive it is; and how it reacts in a variety of weather conditions. Also, unlike the push bike market, the paddle market is filled with people all claiming to sell the fastest and best product. How do you identify the truth; hidden deep within the used car salesman type spin ?

My Experience

I would categorise myself as an intermediate flat water paddler. I have paddled K1, K2, TK2, Surf Ski’s and a wide range of Racing Sea Kayaks. I have raced the 20 Beaches, the Hawkesbury Classic and a variety of club and state races. My paddling experiences were however, around a decade ago and spanned across an 8 year period. It was without doubt, my love sport. Racing with my best mate David Kirkby was for me about as good as a sport could get. But after such a long break away from the sport, and now looking to buy a ski for open water (Inner Sydney Harbour and Ocean), I had much to learn. Whilst I had paddled on the ocean and raced in the 20 beaches, it had always been in a sea kayak; wide and stable. Buying a ski for these conditions was something I didn’t know much about nor, was I much good at it. Sea swell, wind chop and boat wash had not previously been my friend when paddling tippy and fast ski’s or kayaks.

My Story

Anyway, my first contact after some 14 yrs or so was with Tony King from EPIC Kayaks and I met him down at Clontarf and paddled the V 10 Sport and V 12.  The V 10 Sport felt like I had never left the sport. I was stable, it was quick and I felt as if I could power down in almost any conditions; it was simply fantastic … but it wasn’t EPIC’s fastest ski and my ego was searching for the quickest ski the market had to offer !

The EPIC V 12 was far less stable than the V 10 Sport but something I felt I could master reasonably quickly. The V 12 was reported to be EPIC’s speed machine on flat and / or inner harbour conditions and that was all I needed to flick the V 10 Sport.

But to ensure I had tried them all, I test paddled the Think Uno; a ski that felt very much like a K 1 Racing Kayak. I test paddled the Think Uno off Rose Bay and regardless of what my ego was telling me, this ski was simply too tippy for me. As much as I wanted my ego to tell me things would be ok if I just stuck at it, this ski was built for someone much better than me.

Then a mate of mine suggested I chat with Ocean Sports Australia about potentially buying a Fenn; EPIC’s South African cousin. I test paddled their speed machine the Fenn Elite (Full Carbon) and listened to a lot of negative comments in regards to the EPIC Ski’s; (*) negative comments in regards to their manufacture; their price point; their warranties; their durability etc. Ocean Sports Australia sold hard the benefits of a Fenn and whilst I always knew I was getting a one sided argument, the Fenn Elite was a bloody nice ski; very quick on flat and a good buy.

(*) If someone needs to bag a competitors product in order to sell their own, they probably have a hidden agenda.

Leg Numbness

So, I became the very happy owner of a Fenn Elite; until I realised my legs would go numb after about a 30 minute paddle. First the left leg and then in around 60 minutes, both legs would go completely numb from the buttocks to the toes.  If you have ever tried to paddle with leg numbness you will know, this was not a good sign and not something I could just put up with. I stuck at it for 7 weeks; but with each and every paddle sending my legs to sleep, I was soon back talking to Tony King of EPIC Kayaks about what options EPIC had that would prevent this from occurring.

Why did I trade the Fenn for an EPIC ?

From chatting to other paddlers at the time and from spending time reading various ski reviews, it appeared I wasn’t alone. Leg numbness had impacted many paddlers before me and the impacts seemed personal. Not necessarily linked to a particular manufacturer; but linked more to how individual people fitted individual ski’s.

The numbness is a result of pressure being applied to a blood vessel in the buttocks that stops the circulation of blood getting to the legs. Getting the legs lower than the buttocks can relieve the pressure however, with the Fenn Elite already being a tippy ski, raising the seat was not an option for me. The EPIC V 12 had the lowest leg position to the buttocks and felt equally as fast. So after a quick test paddle and chat with Tony King, a deal was done; and I was the proud owner of the EPIC V 12.

After trading my much loved Fenn, I was keen to see how the EPIC V 12 compared so I set course from Balmoral to Roseville Bridge and return; the same 18 k course that previously sent my legs to sleep. To my surprise, I showed absolutely no signs of leg numbness; the ski felt fantastic and all was good.

Tennis Elbow

So just when I thought the world was now sorted, my over enthusiasm for paddling lead to a variety of tennis elbow ailments. 3 Months of paddling tippy ski’s had resulted in a change in paddle stroke and poor technique that had given me tennis elbow . Tennis elbow pain sneaks up slowly and can stay with you for many months. It is not something you can ignore as it impacts everything. So after 3 months on the water, I was back in Physio and now off the water for the same period.

How did I get an EPIC V 10 Sport ?

After the injuries and all the mucking around and as soon as my tennis elbow was resolved, I traded the EPIC V 12 for a ski that would allow me to paddle without worrying about stability; a ski that would allow me to venture beyond Sydney heads without fear; a ski that would allow me to power down all day long without the need to brace and reignite my tennis elbow.

The EPIC V 10 Sport

The V 10 Sport Ultra; the ski I fell in love with some 6 months ago. The ski my head said to buy but my ego wouldn’t allow. The V10 Sport Ultra is full Kevlar and weighs in at 9.5 kilos. The ski is shorter than the V 12 and a little wider. The difference in stability is significant however, the drop off in speed is negligible. My first paddle after a 3 month layoff took me from Balmoral out past north head to Manly. A trip I could never have handled in the other ski’s but, a trip I can see myself doing regularly. The V 10 Sport is a ski I could race right now. It is a ski I could do the 20 Beaches in. It is a ski that meets my level of competency and a ski I hope will keep me injury free. All hail the V 10 Sport. Happy Days !

Tips before you buy:

1. park your ego and buy wise
2. paddle the ski for up to an hour … this will identify issue’s around numbness and comfort-ability
3. test paddle in a series of conditions
4. talk to paddlers and see what they reckon
5. make the time to talk to Tony King of EPIC Kayaks .. highly professionally and a great contact to have
6. beware the used car salesman
7. buy something you can paddle now … and upgrade as you improve
8. have a think about whether you may want to race or tour

Note: the fastest ski will be the one you can most competently paddle !

Visit EPIC Kayak Australia and ask for Tony King.

In my opinion, EPIC Kayaks Australia had the best range of ski’s; the best team of people (headed up by Tony King); a series of options to purchase (including direct from the warehouse or retail outlets); and a truly fantastic product. The EPIC ski’s are produced out of China and are beautifully made. Do yourself a favour and check them out.

Website: www.epickayaks.net.au

Epic V10 Sport Ultra: Review

Epic Mid Wing Paddle: Review

Visit Zhik for wet weather gear.

Whilst in summer, a simple rash vest and shorts is all that’s required … not so in winter. I made the decision to purchase gear designed by ZHIK (the worlds leading dinghy sailing gear). ZHIK is a small Australia company that started business in 2005 and much like EPIC, has their product produced out of China and I got to tell you, it is truly fantastic stuff.

My recent wet weather purchase was their Microfleece Mens Skiff suit. The suit is super light and designed for skiff sailors. So it is built to keep active people warm and mobile whilst not over heating them. If you are looking for a top quality product to keep you dry in winter, take a look at Zhik.

Finally, for news and views on surf ski’s, visit Surf Ski Info.

Happy Paddling.

Kent Williams
Director Entoure

Adrian Tesoriero has been riding with entoure since we commenced in 2008 and has in that time developed (with the help of some mates) his own team brand called, the Rode Duivels.

Adrian has brought riders to the network, raised a considerable sum of money for the Day of Difference Foundation and been an integral part of the entoure team. But, a search through the entoure gallery shows Adrian as  a man who dreams … a ponderer … a deep thinker … one doesn’t stand with a face like this without having a good reason. Is it possible Adrian knew then what we all know now ? Was he dreaming then of taking home the Argon 18 Gallium Pro ? In Adrian’s own words he says “I tell you what, I can hardly sleep at night just hanging to get the new wheels. The digital gears are going to be gold dust”

Congratulations mate … I can’t wait to see you on the road on your new machine.

Kent Williams
Director Entoure

I would like to thank our fabulous sponsors and supporters.

• Jersey Sponsors: Bike Bug, Lend Lease, Astrontech and HP,
• Team Sponsors: Propel Investments, Primatec, Lend Lease, McGrath, Macmil and Rode Duivels,
• Supporters: Bike Bug, Cannibal, Budget, Wedsalad and Fitness First

Check Out Team McGrath

Funds are still rolling in but my projection is that we will raise around $200,000 from the event; of which around $125,000 will be donations paid to the Day of Difference Foundation. A truly fantastic result in what has clearly been a difficult market and taking total funds raised since we commenced in March 2008 to over $1.2 Million.

The winners of our much coveted HP fundraising jerseys went to long time entoure rider Mark Worrall (first place) who raised in excess of $11,000; with runner up jerseys being awarded to Stephen King (second place) and Trevor Armstrong (third place). This year also saw an increased team focus with many of the teams exceeding 100% of team target. Congratulatons to Team Propel who finished in first place at a staggering 182 % of team target.

In addition to our riders raising funds, they sacrifice their time to get fit for the event. In light of the event being a fully supported tour, it is imperative riders are skilled enough to ride in a peloton and to stay together. For some, this hurdle was greater than others and the ride became a massive achievement and one that will stay with them forever. For others, it was a great opportunity to ride with like minded people, to help those less experienced and to race for the Bike Bug Yellow Leaders Jersey, the Lend Lease Green Sprinters Jersey and the Polka Dot Cannibal Climbers Jersey. Congratulations to all the winners of this tours competition jerseys with a special congratulations to Geoff Troup … the strong man of the tour who lead Peloton 1 for the entire 3 days and took home the very much coveted Bike Bug Yellow Leaders Jersey.

This tour over 70% of our riders were new to entoure … which allowed for good existing entoure people to bring more good people. The Astrontech White Best New Riders Jersey was in hot competition and whilst the jersey could have been awarded to any number of the new recruits, 2 standouts from opposite ends of the earth were identified. Peter Richards (left of photo) and Joshua Williams (right of photo). Peter was team captain for Team McGrath … a new team with high hopes. Peter’s leadership was outstanding and as good or better than any that have gone before him. He was the key driver across all aspects of his team … from initial engagement and sign up, to fundraising, to training rides, to hospital visits to winner of competition jerseys. If it was on offer, Peter was all over it … and put his team in a position of real pride and prominence. Joshua (my nephew) on the other hand is 15 years old and his achievements were far more personal. Two months ago Joshua told his dad (a previous tour rider and winner of entoures inaugural Yellow Leaders Jersey in March 2008) that he would like to ride in the tour. The only issue was he hadn’t been on a bike, didn’t know the road rules, and had no network to raise funds. But, with a strong desire to achieve Joshua raised in excess of $1,500 and cycled 110 k on Day 2 of the tour and received strong praise from Ron Delezio and all who witnessed him conquer what for some would simply have been the unachievable. Congratulations to the other white jersey winners but a special congratulations to Peter and Joshua … all hail your achievements.

The tradition of dressing a rider as a clown continued however, this year it had a twist … with Sophie Delezio face painting a very deserved winner in Robert Montgomery. The purpose behind the clown award is to identify someone the riders believes makes them smile, brings joy to a struggling peloton and happiness to the tour. The award is selected by the riders and is a symbol of the great work performed in hospitals by clowns and the joy clowns bring to sick and injured kids right throughout the country. Michael Foster and Robert Montgomery were the winners of this tours clown award but a special thanks must go to Sophie Delezio who beautifully painted Roberts face and who in many respects changed the entire feel of this years tour.

Finally, I would like to thank the support team … lead by David Sharpe; but included:

• Ron Delezio
• Cam Wood
• Veronika Vosynkova
• Mark Williams
• Joshua Williams
• Ollie Martin
• Kylie Bernoth
• Stephen Trethowen
• Alfie Brown
• Paul Russell
• Jimmy Howard and
• Andrew Bennett

This year the support team included Lead and Rear Vehicle Drivers, Motor Bike Traffic Support Riders, Massage Therapists, Doctors, Luggage Transfer Drivers and on road Bike Mechanics. Thanks again to all who rode, supported and donated to the cause and I look forward to bigger and better things next tour.

Kent Williams
Director
Entoure

Our initial brief to SMPC Creative Communications was to design a logo that was fun, fresh and engaging. Something that would appeal to all ages; in particular kids; and have strong use of block colours.

We would love to hear what you feel about the campaign and our logo. Drop us your thoughts !

Whilst the launch of it’s first community initiative will be low key; the launch remains significant and we encourage everyone to get involved.

The Wigs 4 Kids concept is based on Red Nose Day, Jenes For Genes Day and Movember; and simply encourages people to transform their looks for a day and to raise money for the Day of Difference Foundation.

The idea has come about after a detailed review of what has worked in the past and what we believe could work now. The campaign will be launched April 30 and it will be very interesting to see what traction we get across our existing supporter base.

For details of the campaign and or to participate, read on.

More and more I see people having less and less time to be polite. I see drivers and riders fighting for road ownership; each one thinking they own the road; and I see drivers thinking cyclists are nothing more than a nuisance; a cause for being late; and an excuse to behave badly and a reason to make poor decisions.

What often gets mentioned when it comes to a solution is:

1. licenses for cyclists, and
2. cycle ways

But what rarely, if ever, get’s discussed as a solution is:

1. COMMUNICATION AND EDUCATION.

Is it just me that thinks this could be the solution ?

Giving cyclists a license and or getting them onto cycle ways will do little to improve rider / driver relationships. Will do little to increase tolerance levels between those who “share” the road. I believe the solution to the problem is simple … but it will take a quantum shift in thinking and tolerance from both sides of the fence. The road is there to share … but how do we share it when those who use the road have run out of patience with each other ?

The Communication Revolution

1. Integrate cycle awareness into schools and driver licensing tests,
2. Develop a consistent communication platform for cyclists,
3. Educate and test cyclists online … as part of their membership to say Bicycle NSW,
4. Roll out an education platform across cycle clubs and communities,  and
5. Test and educate drivers to ensure the cyclists communication platform is understood

Cyclists already have a range of signals that alert other cyclists to:

1. slow riders ahead,
2. holes on the road,
3. park cars, etc etc

But not all cyclists are consistent with the signals, controlling lanes and communicating and or warning vehicles. Whilst cyclists have a communication platform of sorts, a far more rigid set of signals needs to be introduced and in my view, shared across all road users. If we want harmony on the roads and respect between cyclists and drivers, better communication and education is key. Like any relationship … if you fail to communicate … you fail the relationship.

So whilst the debate continues:

1. ride smart,
2. spend a bit of time understanding each others signals,
3. set some rules that you will all abide from,
4. respect the road rules,
5. give some thought to the driver behind you who has no idea what’s in your head,
6. do whatever you can to ensure they (the drivers) are better informed and able to make better choices,
7. thank them (the drivers) when they make a good choice,
8. don’t get aggressive when they (the drivers) make a poor choice, and
9. don’t allow or encourage them (the drivers) to make a bad choice

A Final Thought

Why is it that ?

A driver won’t overtake another car on a roundabout and / or across double yellow lines that is for some reason traveling at say 30 or 40 ks an hour ? But they will happily overtake a bike rider under the exact same conditions ?

Answer ?

1. Is it the fact that the driver sees so much spare road between the bike rider/s that they just have to take it ?
2. If bike riders had backsides as wide as the rear of a car … would drivers still overtake them ?

I think the road can at times be compared to a badly proportioned birthday cake … too many people wanting a slice and no rules on who should get what slice first.

Safe miles.

Kent Williams

Director Entoure

Some riders need no training …. some riders need a plan …. and some riders need help.

Ergo Trainers

I recently purchased a TACX Bushido ergo trainer and for those of you who are time poor and don’t know much about these, I highly recommend you look to purchase something like this if getting out on the road is just not working for you. One hour on one of these is like 2 + hours on the bike. There is no where to hide and no free wheeling.

The Bushido is the newest Ergotrainer by Tacx and if you listen to them, by far the most advanced available today. The Bushido is entirely wireless and therefore requires no mains allowing you to ride it indoors or out. It comes with a handlebar-mounted computer showing you all the necessary information (power, heart rate, cadence, speed, time, watts etc). Operation is easy; and the choices of route options is vast. I have had the unit for a few weeks now and intend to do the bulk of my tour training in my backyard with my dog by my side.

Road Rides

But with all that said, time on the road with friends can’t be under valued. Equally, riding in a peloton before the tour is essential.

For Peloton Etiquette and Rider Rules for the tour, click here.

For a look at our Training Rides, click here.

Safe Miles

Kent Williams

Director Entoure

Riders will shortly receive a newsletter, advising that our new website is live and ready for action. With the launch of our new website, it is important all riders and donors keen to receive newsletters and to stay engaged, REGISTER FOR OUR NEWSLETTERS by clicking on the button identified in the newsletter and / or registering for our newsletters via our website.

This tour we are expecting around 60 + riders across 6 or so teams.

The teams so far include:

1. Primatec
2. Lend Lease
3. MacMil
4. McGrath
5. Rode Duivels
6. Propel

Make sure you do the following:

1. Register and secure yourself a spot,
2. Nominate a team Captain and have them log in and establish a Team Page,
3. Link yourself to the team page,
4. Dust off your bike, and
5. Giddy Up

To learn how to use the site download our user manual.

Tony Abbott is coming

Tony Abbott, the new leader of the opposition, is expected to ride on the 2nd day of the tour. Tony has been a big supporter of the Day of Difference and as we all know, a very keen cyclist. It will be a pleasure to have him along and I look forward to sitting next to him in the peloton and chatting about life.

Training Rides

I look forward to seeing you all on the road soon and will shortly announce our training ride schedule.Stay tuned.

Safe Miles.

Kent Williams

Entoure Director

An important change this tour however, is the rebuild of our new and improved website and the ability for riders to take control of their fundraising and to better engage their communities in what they are doing. The site has been streamlined for both riders and donors and is scheduled to go live tomorrow March 4, 2010. Congratulations to the team at Websalad and I hope everyone who uses our website enjoys what has been created and the increased levels of functionality now on offer.

To the riders soon to register for the 2010 Hunter Valley event ….. WELCOME.

Spend a bit of time to:

• learn about the website,
• download the user manual from the newsletter that will issue to you tomorrow,
• register for the event
• establish your hero page
• create a team page
• link your riders
• dust off your bike, and
• get ready to start your journey that will save kids lives.

Safe miles.

Kent Williams

Director Entoure

When riders initially fall short of their fundraising targets, Entoure looks at why, and keeps the focus on saving the lives of critically injured kids. See some of our fundraising tips here.

Riders have an array of choices when it comes to entering an event and raising money for a good cause. And we as donors are often approached to support a friend or colleague’s challenge for a particular cause.

Our inaugural Entoure Cycle Classic Noosa in 2008 saw many teams fall short of the fundraising pie – more about Entoure’s communication around achieving goals than it was about the riders. Our first year was also about getting a presence for the event in Noosa rather than raising huge amounts of cash. But we learnt from the experience and are coming back strong!

Team Conrad have proved to be a shining example in the upcoming Entoure Cycle Classic Noosa for 2009 (October 9-11), by:

1. Setting up a fundraising task force weeks out from the event
2. Meeting early and identifying key drivers and campaigns that could work
3. Drilling down to what they felt would be the most effective campaigns
4. Implementing a series of goals and driving milestones over a four-week period

Team Conrad will share their achievements once we get to Noosa – and I’ll blog more then – but they are an example of what can happen. Team Conrad’s fundraising ALREADY sits at $15,500 (on a $12,000 target) and they go into this tour very proud of their efforts. Regardless of what happens, Team Conrad are winners.

I love nothing more than to see riders engaged in the cause, working hard off the bike and going the extra yards for the kids. The transition in Team Conrad across the 2008 and 2009 tours is for me one of the best examples as to the value of good people, and why more people should have a crack at Entoure events.

Cycling is simply the portal I use to raise awareness and funds for critically injured kids. For me, the cycle tours are about mateship, having fun and raising funds – if we can continue in that vein, we will save the lives of many more critically injured kids.

If you have a fantastic story about your team, please email it to kent@entoure.com.au

Let’s keep doing it for the kids,

Kent Williams
Entoure Cycle for Life

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/fordakids
Become a fan of Entoure on Facebook
Follow the ride on Facebook: Entoure Cycle Classic Noosa

There’s one cyclist who had me wiping away a happy tear when I saw the results on his Hero Fundraising page, and that person is Entoure’s Hero of the Week.*

Franco Dibartolomeo, Captain of Team Coronis / MDEV, has raised more than $16,000 for critically injured children in four short days. When I saw the tally and comments from Franco’s donors I couldn’t believe it. Everyone at Entoure and the Day of Difference Foundation is blown away – this is an absolutely outstanding effort with many within Franco’s network contributing and some contributing massive amounts of money.

This achievement says a lot about Franco because whilst people support good causes, in the main, they support people they connect with and trust. Those who have supported Franco in just four days must think the world of him and see him as a hero – just as we do.

Good on you Franco, the subject of our first blog and Entoure’s Hero of the Week.

You may or may not know, but this tour we have a Riders’ Fundraising Jersey, sponsored by HP, for the rider who raises the most funds. Currently it has Franco’s name on it – but who knows – next week could be a very different story!

To see the donations and comments to Franco’s Hero Page, click here. And to select another rider to donate to, click here.

Fantastic effort. You should be very proud of yourself. – Ron Delezio, CEO and Founder, Day of Difference Foundation

Well done Franco!!!!! – Angelo Venardos

Let’s keep doing it for the kids,

Kent Williams
Entoure Cycle for Life

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/fordakids
Become a fan of Entoure on Facebook
Follow the ride on Facebook: Entoure Cycle Classic Noosa

* Hero of the Week didn’t exist before Franco’s massive effort, but it certainly does now!