Anou Pedaler

It was a fine sunny day on 9 October when 1000 participants, including three Mauritian Ministers, took part in the annual 100 km bike race which traverses the island of Mauritius. The long haul, which commences from Le Preskil Hotel, Mahebourg, proceeds up the East Coast, and then concludes at Mont Choisit.

Several Australians could not resist the temptation, and having undertaken their own idiosyncratic training programs, successfully made it to the finish line to the cheers and salutations of family and friends. We were very proud to witness the outstanding performance of our very own Lynn Rayner, whose stamina and fitness have already become legendary in Mauritius in events such as the running marathons and half marathons. As she did last year, she took out a podium finish (First in the Women’s Veterans mountain bike category). It should also be noted that husband Rod would have been there to push her time along even faster had he been able to keep up (Rod did have a very creditable finish despite having been struck down with the flu in the preceding week).

The High Commission was represented by Ian McConville who found out the joys of riding in the peleton, and keeping a low profile on the hilly stretches. This time, he also succeeded in working out that it helps to carry water with you – a factor which led him to be satisfied at improving on his time from last year.

With many thanks to the Organisers of this terrific sporting event, as well as to friends and family in the Australian and wider community who cheered us along.

Australian High Commissioner Ian McConville (right) with fellow Aussies Lynn and Rod Rayner after competing in the 100 km cycle race – 9 October 2005