by Alex Renzella

The Champ is here.  John Cain will be seeking to take out a record SEVENTH Masters Road National ITT title in October at the nation’s premier masters event.
 
With Masters titles from 2010 and 2013 to 2017 in addition to a tally of 11 state ITT victories, Cain is moving from Masters 5 to Masters 6 after a consistent period of success which he credits to always having a strong preparation and training regime before each event.
 
A modified training schedule over the past 12 months has challenged the Victorian’s lead up to this year’s event but he remains adamant that the goal of claiming a seventh title is very much attainable.
 
“My goal will be to win but my knees aren’t what they used to be, after 6 wins in the past I am now happy to just get to the start line in good shape” Cain told Cycling Victoria.
 
Amongst his plethora of titles, the 2015 Masters title in Pottsville NSW was a stressful one for Cain and almost never was as he had forgotten a significant requirement to compete in the event, registration.
 
“My prep was perfect, had organised my flights, car hire & accommodation. The day before the race I realised I had not entered! I spent the day on the phone to some very nice people at CA and after mentioning ‘but I’m the defending champion!’ several times, was able to get my name on the list. I won’t make that mistake ever again.”
 
Cain isn’t a stranger to the Gippsland area, having competed in the inaugural Tour of East Gippsland some years ago conquering the hillier terrain, however, was unable to contest the event in 2017 or earlier this year.
 
The former triathlete turned cyclist praised this year’s host towns of Metung, Paynesville and Swan Reach, commenting on the location and landscape that the riders to face.  
 
“Great roads to race on, great scenery and the regional areas always try really hard to put on a special event and I’m sure the Nat’s this year will be no different.”
   
Representing Carnegie Caulfield CC, the reigning ITT Champion had some words of encouragement for first time riders, stating that a solid preparation is key for those striving for a victory.
 
“I really only have one tip for Masters Cyclists – GET TO THE STARTING LINE FIT & HEALTHY. If you are able to do that you are always in with a chance.”
 
Cain went on to say that cyclists of all abilities should give it a go and get involved in the Masters. 
 
“The more the merrier. If you are just an average club rider then it is definitely something you should think about and experience. Attending the Nationals is always a great weekend away with lots of cycling to participate in and a new part of Australia to discover.”
 

by Alex Renzella

​October’s Masters Road Nationals in Victoria’s East Gippsland is picking up traction with the local council and community businesses continuing their support of the upcoming event through their regular Business Breakfast program.
 
October’s breakfast host, Bairnsdale’s Big Garage, coincidentally is a support partner of the Masters Nationals and was joined by presenting partner Simon Anderson Consultants and support partner Cranes Asphalting along with other members of the East Gippsland Marketing and Business group.
 
Cycling Victoria’s Event Manager, Karin Jones, presented an overview of the event and the benefit to the region to an enthusiastic audience.
 
The Big Garage’s involvement and the enthusiasm of the event was evident as Cycling Victoria’s President Lisa Byrne recently found out, attending the breakfast along with East Gippsland Council members also present.  
 
“I experienced the genuine passion, excitement and keenness to support this event of local businesses and the local community. I certainly am of the view that more events in this area would be welcomed and supported by the community” Byrne said.  
 
Byrne also commented on the importance of having local businesses from the East Gippsland area as key sponsors.
 
“Having local businesses involved in supporting and sponsoring an event in the area is key to assimilating with the local community.”
 
The Masters will begin on Thursday October 18 in Metung with the Individual TT and end on Sunday October 21, finishing with the Criterium in Paynesville while Swan Reach will host the Road Races in between on the 19th and 20th.
 
The Big Garage announced at the event that they will provide a $500 donation to a sporting club for each vehicle sold if the purchaser talks about and mentions their club.
 
Further information regarding the event and its sponsors can be found at the official website www.masters.roadnationals.org.au