Brisbane Team Check In – Day 3:
476km ridden, 4,987m of elevation climbed, $469,041 raised.
Day 3 feels different.
The group is smaller this year - but sharper, faster, and united by a level of passion that’s hard to put into words. We’ve spent one night in Rotorua, becoming accustomed to its sights and smells…but now we get up close and personal with its mountains.
For the unfortunate few not from Victoria, it was a cold morning which meant donning the extra layers and heading north-east towards Okere Falls. The peloton was a force to be reckoned with as we sailed through the suburbs with sunshine spilling over the horizon, further warming our already blazing determination.
As the peloton descended on the first of many mountain ranges, every rider attacked with gusto, grit, and grace. Moving like a well-oiled machine all three teams ascended furiously as Matawhaura rose ominously on the horizon.
What happened next can only be described with three words.
A Timmy Special.
A Timmy Special.
This meant 3.7km of dust, challenge, and character-building gravel. For some of our newer riders, this was a true introduction to what the ride is all about. While one unlucky teammate became very well acquainted with our mechanic after three consecutive punctures, the rest of the group pressed on - heads down, legs burning, moving forward together.
Along the coastline the team was treated to flat roads and ocean vistas that enabled us to reach the final stop of the day. Greeted by a familiar face, we began our final climb up Otuhepo Mountain and around Lake Rotoma which brought us within striking distance of home. With sheer determination (and a push or two up the hills) the peloton sailed into town and back to home base with over 6 hours of riding time under their belts.
A huge thank you goes to our incredible support crew. Your commitment, care, and tireless effort behind the scenes makes everything we do possible. You keep us moving, keep us safe, and allow us to focus on the bigger purpose of this ride.
Your work does not go unnoticed, and it is deeply appreciated by every single rider.
Matt Langfield – Team Limitless
