JESSE NEILL

THE Barossa Pedal Prix Club recently completed its first race year in 2019 as part of the UniSA Australian Human Powered Vehicle Super Series (AHPVS).
Chairperson Randal Searle said the club was developed this year as a community team when Nuriootpa High School was no longer able to run the program.
“When we found out it wasn’t going to continue at the high school, we got together as a parent group and decided to go ahead and form a community team,” he said.
“At the start of the year it was all a bit rushed, but we got there in the end and have probably picked up from where we were last year.”
The team participated in four competitions in its inaugural season, recently completing its final event of the year – the 24-hour race in Murray Bridge.
Held across September 21 and 22, the race fielded over 200 bikes and Barossa Pedal Prix’s ‘Avenger’ finished fifth in its ‘community team’ category and 34th overall.
The club’s other bike, ‘Bullet’, finished ninth in its category and 113th overall.
“Overall, the bikes ran clean and they ran smooth,” Mr Searle said.
“We tipped them over a few times, but didn’t do any major damage – it’s probably one of our better results.”
The club has also been supported by the Barossa Council, along with many local businesses and parents who have raised funds for ongoing costs, uniforms and race entry fees, as well as helped out with maintenance.
Around 15 regular riders have stayed involved throughout the season, with members coming from various areas across the region including Barossa, Light, Eudunda, Playford and Gawler.
Mr Searle said Pedal Prix is suitable for anyone aged 12 and above, and that the club is inclusive and committed to having fun.
The next racing season begins in March 2020 in Loxton, and the club is planning a ‘come and try’ recruitment day in late January in Gawler and the Barossa.
For further information about these upcoming events, or how to join, visit the Barossa Pedal Prix Facebook page or contact the club via email on barossapedalprix@gmail.com