Nicola Rutzou
After clearing the final hiccups, the VIC100 ride from Penrith to Mount Victoria in the scenic Blue Mountains is set to go ahead on Sunday, 16 November 2025.
Ride organiser Ed Kirk, who also runs the Go for Broke ride in September each year, says he’s confident the ride will go ahead this year, despite previous delays. “We had several hurdles with communities that we needed to clear before we could proceed.”
The VIC100 ride follows the historic Bells Line of Road, which crosses the Blue Mountains. The westbound lane of the road will be closed to all traffic during the event, with only residents accessing the eastbound lane.
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 a chance to test their legs on the two two-kilometre 10 to 12 per cent climbs. But any pain will soon be forgotten with spectacular scenery along this absolutely stunning road.
“Our goal is to attract 800 riders this year, who can 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.
With four groups starting in Penrith (at 5.30, 6.15, 7, and 7.30, the slowest first and fastest last), the 100km route takes in 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.
“Before COVID, mental health and anxiety were a taboo subject,” he says. “Now, in 2025, although the community is much more open about this terrible disease, nine Australians still lose their battle with mental health each day. For every suicide, 20 people try.
“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 nine years, our riders have raised $500,000 for 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 roving mechanics, provided by Trek Bikes, will support riders along the course.
Keen to read more or ride the VIC100? Visit www.goforbroke.org.au/vic100/
