Palma Push grows in popularity

Six years ago, Palma Push founders Peter Mclean and Haydn Tilley had an idea for an event. The first year saw 68 riders participate, but by this year, totals were up to 409 riders. The North Queensland, Australia, event happened Sunday, July 22.

The Paluma Push is really two events in one. It's both a race and a recreational ride. Every rider was responsible for raising a minimum of AUS$10 for the Rural Firies of Hidden Valley and Paluma. This year, the total raised will exceed f $7,000.

Tim Odwyer won the open men's division in a time of 1:59:10 with Cameron Single from Mackay only one minute behind while Jennifer Macrow took the open female category in creditable time of 2:26:29. 50+ winner Peter Stuart put all his years of good training to use to finish in 2:20:50. Other winners included Jason Vaughan (in the largest field, veteran male), Aaron Ross(juniors), William Draffen (young guns), and Scott Mclennan (40-49 male).

The event has become so popular, organizers will limit participation next year to prevent venue overcrowding.