Heard of the Hawaiian Ride for Youth but always wondered what actually happens from day to day? We’ve enlisted our Captain and 11 time Ride for Youth rider Phil Renshaw to share some insights on what a typical day looks like on the ride.

Wake up 6.00am

We have breakfast anywhere between 6.30 and 7.15am depending on distance for the day and departure time.

Next we prepare for a day of cycling! That entails packing an overnight bag (which is unavailable while cycling) and a day pack (available while cycling). The day pack includes a change of clothes, wet weather gear etc. so that we can be prepared for any conditions that lie ahead!

7.15 – 7.45 am

We warm-up and the massage therapists take the us through a series of stretches so we can stay healthy and well during long days of cycling.

7.45 am     

We get the daily briefing from the Event Director and Lead Rider about the day ahead including who are the lead out riders, V8 and peloton structure, timing of stops, school visits etc. Very important for the smooth running of the day!

8.00am : Ride out!

During the Day

Looking after our riders

We stop every 1 ½ hours for a break and to refuel to ensure everyone is well hydrated and coping well over the course of the day. Our pelotons contain riders of varying levels of fitness and ability. We make sure everyone is doing well throughout the day.

School visits

School visits are generally happen once or twice a day for about 40 minutes each. School visits are a big part of the way we hope to have a positive impact on young people throughout the state. We believe face-to-face story sharing is one of the most powerful ways to talk about mental health amongst young people and hope that by sharing our stories we might make a positive difference to others lives.

Lunch happens either at a school or at the hotel when we finish for the day. Food is always very healthy.  Fruit, cereals and toast most days for breakfast.  On the road there is a constant flow of fruit, gels, muesli bars, electrolytes, Killer Pythons and cake.  Lunch is always a roll or wrap, except for Friday.  Friday is Pie Day.  No-one ever loses weight during ride week.

End of the Day

We usually arrive at accommodation anywhere between 1.30 and 3.30pm. Massages start 15-30 minutes after arrival (20 minutes each and will be every second day for each rider). Generally beers in the carpark take priority over stretches after a particularly long days' ride!

‍6.00pm      

Drinks and Captains Meeting –  We discuss the day that was and what is the plan for the following day.  We also discuss special jersey presentations, riders who may need help etc.

 6.30pm       

The group gets together over dinner. This is where special jersey awards and fines are issued.  You can be fined for just about anything!

 10.00pm (in theory)        

Bed for a good nights rest before we do it all again!

For more insights on the ride and to stay updated with Team Oqea make sure you follow our social media @oqea.me or Facebook from next week!