Nicola Rutzou
In just ten days, the inaugural VIC100 ride from Penrith to Mount Victoria in the scenic Blue Mountains will take place, and there are still spots available.
The VIC100 ride on Sunday, 16 November 2025, follows the historic Bells Line of Road, crossing the Blue Mountains. During the event, the westbound lane of the road will be closed to all traffic, and only residents will be able to access the eastbound lane.
Event founder Ed Kirk has ridden the VIC100 route numerous times and says it’s one of the best rides he’s ever done.
“It’s an incredible road, but it’s not so conducive to cycling when it’s open. Many sections are single lane with no shoulder, with communication blackspots, which is why we’ll be offering the VIC100 with the westbound lane of the road closed while riders are fully supported on route,” he said.
“Riders will also get to test their legs on the two-kilometre 10 to 12 per cent climbs. But any pain will soon be forgotten with spectacular scenery along this absolutely stunning road.
“The riders will self-select one of four groups according to speed. Like other mass participation rides, there will be rest stops and an event festival awaiting the rider’s arrival at Mount Victoria,” added Ed.
Four groups start in Penrith (at 5.30 am, 6.15 am, 7 am, and 7.30 am, the slowest first and fastest last). The 100km route covers 2,200 vertical metres, and riders can return to the start via special train services from Mount Victoria.
Ed Kirk started Go for Broke in 2016 after his own battle with mental health.
“The one reason we run both events is to raise money for one charity, Lifeline. All funds raised go to critical frontline services. Over the past ten years, our riders have raised $560,000 for the Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury Sydney, based in Gordon. My ambitious goal for this year’s two events is to raise an additional $500,000, which will be split evenly among three Lifeline offices that service the areas along the VIC100 route: Lifeline Macarthur & Western Sydney, Lifeline Central West, and Harbour to Hawkesbury Sydney.
“Rotary Clubs along the route will be supporting the ride with volunteers, and there has been more than three years of planning with the Police and other stakeholders. Transport for NSW has also been incredibly supportive with planning and project coordination, particularly with closing Bells Line of Road,” said Kirk.
Mike Tomalaris and Paul Craft will serve as the MCs at both the start and finish lines, and Trek Bikes will provide roving mechanics to support riders along the course.
Keen to sign up for the inaugural VIC100? Visit www.goforbroke.org.au/vic100/
Nicola Rutzou – a long-time contributor and, most recently, the editor of Bicycling Australia. Nicola is a keen Sydney-based road cyclist who writes reviews, news, and destination pieces, as well as the weekly e-newsletter for BA online.
