Audax rides are non-competitive long distance tours by bicycle, called "randonnees". The challenge of Audax is not in racing, but in riding at your own pace to finish within the time limit. Audax events are held in most parts of Australia, and you will be made very welcome when participating in rides when visiting other Regions. Rides are open to all reasonably fit riders. Non-Audax members are most welcome to join our friendly and supportive participants.
Every four years Audax riders assemble in Paris for the major event on the Audax international calendar, the Paris-Brest-Paris. This 1200km randonnee has a maximum time limit of 90 hours. Riders must qualify for the event by completing a number or smaller rides in the year leading up to the event. The qualifying rides are 200, 300, 400 and 600km conducted over one or two days.
The Paris-Brest-Paris predates the Tour de France. It was first held in 1891 as a race, with 207 starters and 99 finishers. In 2003 the field was limited to 3 500 riders, including 83 Australians.
The next Paris-Brest-Paris will be held from 20 to 24 August 2007. If you'd be interested in taking up this challenge, please contact Bicycle Mackay and we can organise some events in North Queensland to put on the Audax calendar.
This site gives some great details of the history of the Paris-Brest-Paris.
Other Audax Rides
Audax organises rides in many parts of Australia all year round. These include supported and unsupported tours ranging from 50 to over 2000km. There is something for everyone.
For more details on Audax you can visit the Audax Australia website.