It transpired that he and his dad were driving to Bendigo to each compete in their own particular section of mountain bike races, events held very recently, starting on the Spring Gully oval and heading out to Mount Alexander and back. Charlie’s dad was doing the masters 50 kilometre route and Charlie the 30 kilometre under 15 years.

As his dad was setting off on his race considerably earlier than Charlie, could I, Nanna, possibly come and keep him company...and, as his dad said, keep encouraging him to eat and drink as much as possible before the race. Of course I would, nothing could be as important as an invitation like that.

When I arrived at the oval the place was fairly buzzing. Bikes of all sizes and shapes, and riders of a similar mien, were everywhere. The oval was alive with marquees of food and clothes to buy. A loud speaker was organising everyone into times and positions.  A very responsible starter was issuing instructions to cyclists with information about how to manage the route as the ride would involve rather dusty and rough conditions.

Event organisers were busy managing everyone and it all appeared to be remarkably well coordinated, with literally hundreds of cyclists competing seriously. As Charlie and I sat there quietly contemplating the scene, with me as guardian trying to encourage Charlie to eat and drink, totally unsuccessfully as he was far too nervous to do either, we watched cyclists fluffing around their bikes in the same manner that horse riders do their horses and dog owners do their dogs.

We watched as oil cans were produced and bikes were lovingly given last minute repair jobs, handle bars were readjusted with serious implements. That amazing leave-nothing-to–the- imagination tight fitting lycra harboured pockets which were filled with every conceivable health bar....and the mobile phone of course.

The gum trees overarching this green oasis stand as guardians of this superb setting, housing a menagerie of birds that create a cacophony of sounds, adding to the beauty of the day. These majestic trees have watched over this oval for many years, and all our children once competed on it and practiced their footy, cricket and athletic skills. It has always been a part of our community. It is a tradition continued when a grandchild is here using this oval.

Once the early riders were off and racing I filed down to cheer Charlie off, and headed home briefly, only to return to greet the totally exhausted and thoroughly exhilarated cyclists on their return. 

Down the road Relay for Life was in full swing, another oval full of good friendship and strong emotions. I had planned to join the walk until cycling took precedence but I certainly hope to be back there next year.  Cancer is a challenge and I am losing too many good friends every year to this terrible disease.

The Friday night commemorative service held in memory of those who have lost a loved one is a truly memorable evening. It is a time of quiet contemplation, shared grief and memories.

The final tally for Relay for Life was $135,000 plus. That speaks for itself and for the dedication of everyone involved who helped organise this wonderful event. Congratulations to all those who supported this annual fundraiser.