Mud, Sweat and tears

MORE than 1200 cyclists battled the hills of the Lockyer Valley between Preston Peak and Hidden Vale to compete in the annual Cycle Epic on Sunday.

The adventure started at 7am as riders were released and wound their way through a course consisting of cow tracks meandering through private properties, down muddy mountains and through puddles.

For the open category, the overall male winner for the 104km epic was Adrian Jackson who crossed the finish line after four gruelling hours and 15 minutes of mud, sweat and tears.

The female category winner was Jodie Willett who finished in four hours and 55 minutes.

Scott Emmerson recorded his best time yet, coming in at third place in the Epic male 30 to 39 year category.

Mr Emmerson grew up on his parents' property near Hatton Vale but currently resides in Townsville. He has entered the Epic seven years in a row during his racing career that spans 16 years. He said he enjoys the challenge of competitions like the Epic.

“I love being able to compete with the best in Australia and other riders from around the world,” he said.

"I get up and train every morning at 4am and ride between 400 and 500km each week.

”Mr Emmerson said the climb around Mt Sylvia was also a tough leg of the course.

“It was tough but not as bad as last year when it was 38 degrees and I had to jump in a cow trough to cool down,” he said.

“I feel super now; I think I could ride home.”

Organiser Peter Creagh said conditions were perfect for the race and the record number of entries has boosted the event's profile this year.

“We have had over 1200 for the two days including more than 500 cyclists participating in the 100km race,” Mr Creagh said.

“It's growing every year and we really appreciate the help of our volunteers from the region and the local landholders to make it a success.

“It also brings a lot of money into the region and everyone has a real positive demeanour today."

Winner of the over 60 category, Bruce Wood said he rode across the outback in the Simpson Desert Cycle Challenge in 2007, and he reckons it was easier than the Epic.

“Laidley Gap was the hardest part of the race and last year I jumped in a creek to keep cool,” Mr Wood said.

“It is the camaraderie, fun and fitness that keep me going as well as a love for the great outdoors."

Sure enough, there were some larrikins on the track and winner of Team2 category, the Flaccid Rooster Fluffers were happy to win, although a few of the team were out with injuries.

They described themselves as “bunch of middle-aged blokes having some fun” and that seemed to be the spirit for everyone on the day.