Cycling enthusiasts are encouraged to pedal on down to the Maldon Community Centre this Saturday for the third Maldon Classic Bike Show.
This unique show celebrates classic steel bicycles and brings together enthusiasts from across the country, to meet and explore classic and artisan bikes from across the eras, while raising vital funds for the Maldon Hospital.
Whether it is an early piece of cycling history from the 1900s, a more recent steel frame from those artisans still producing steel bikes, or gold-winning bikes, there will be a wide variety of bikes to pique everyone’s interest.
Event organisers Pete Gray and Michael McCartney have spent two months bringing the latest show together to ensure this year is the best yet and are expecting about 100 entries.
Pete Gray, owner and artist from Shades of Gray, said the local community had supported his career for 30 years and the bike show was a great way for him to give back by raising funds for the local hospital.
“I was unwell back in 2016 and the Maldon cycling community were an integral part of my recovery, encouraging me to get back on the bike and ride my way to better health,” he said.
“Plus, I love bikes and it gives me a chance to share my passion with the town.
“It’s a great chance to see the bikes from your youth and to chat with other enthusiasts.”
There will be a wide range of bikes on display including an Olympic gold medal winning bike, a Tour de France stage winning bike, the 1989 World Champion’s bike, plus lots of other bikes with interesting stories.
Pete has also put his artistic skills to the test in support of this year’s event creating unique bicycle-themed trophies, which entrants will be vying to take home.
“Our five judges will each select their favourite bike and the entry to receive the most points overall will win the ‘Judge’s Choice’ award. There will also be a prize up for grabs for the ‘People’s Choice’ with voting taking place throughout the day,” Pete said.
“I’ve used recycled materials and bike parts to create the trophies, which are sure to be prized by classic enthusiasts.”
If you’re keen to enter your pushy, you’d better get on your bike, with registrations closing tomorrow, Wednesday, February 28.
Registrations are open to all bikes made before the year 2000 and cost $15 per bike. Visit www.trybooking.com/COIGO to register.
The Maldon Classic Bike Show will be held on March 2 from 10.30am to 3.30pm at the Community Centre, 6 Francis Street, Maldon.
Tickets to view the bikes are just $5 and can be purchased at the door. For more event information visit www.themaldonclassic.org.
