8 June 2026 · Real People doing awesome stuff
Clubhouse Chats: Frank and the Audax
While the bunch was chasing the MC Classic around the Eastern Suburbs, Frank quietly slipped away for a casual 200km loop through Wisemans Ferry. We caught up with him at the Clubhouse to talk Audax, the quiet magic of riding all day, and why your next big adventure might not be a race at all.
A few weeks ago, while the rest of us were chasing the MC Classic around the Eastern Suburbs, Frank was quietly slipping away to knock out a casual 200km loop. Intrigued by his propensity for casual long distances, we caught up with him over a coffee in the Clubhouse to find out what exactly drives him, and why you should probably join him next time.
For the uninitiated, Frank, what actually is an Audax?
It’s got a pretty cool history, actually. The word comes from the Latin for bold or courageous. Back in 1897, a group of Italian cyclists rode 200km between sunrise and sunset, earning themselves the nickname “les Audacieux.” Today, Audax is about non-competitive, long-distance cycling events ranging anywhere from 50km to a mind-boggling 1200km. They’re called randonnées. The core philosophy isn't about racing others, it’s about pushing your own boundaries and sharing the achievement with a bunch of like-minded riders. Because the time limits are so generous, it attracts everyone from racers and club riders to commuters and cycle-tourists.
Here in Australia, the main long-distance events are Brevets Randonneur Mondiaux (BRM), which are certified internationally.
The pinnacle of the sport is the famous 1200km Paris-Brest-Paris (PBP) in France, held every four years. Australian cycling legend Sir Hubert Opperman (“Oppy”) actually won it back in 1931 when it was still a race. Until he passed away in 1996, Oppy was the patron of Audax Australia.
How did you get into the world of ultra-distance riding?
I was watching UK ultra-cyclists like Katie Kookaburra on YouTube and just fell down the rabbit hole. I loved the idea of a massive challenge that wasn't a race, and the opportunity to do something a bit different. I googled Audax Australia to see what was happening locally, found their calendar, and signed up for the "King of the Castle 200" out of Castle Hill back in November 2022. I haven't looked back since.
We love our MC Velo Longest Days. What sets an Audax apart?
Freedom and self-reliance. You ride entirely at your own pace and stop exactly when it suits you. The time limit for a 200km ride is 13.5 hours, so there’s absolutely no need to rush back for a Swans game or a family lunch.
But it demands a lot more logistical respect. You have to get yourself to the start line, which may be an hour’s drive away. And you have to manage your own navigation. You can’t just sit on Andy’s wheel and rely on him to guide you!
Every event gives you a RideWithGPS link and a cue sheet with recommended food and water stops, plus a couple of checkpoints where you have to physically get your card initialed. Though almost every Audax I’ve done has included a phase of "got a bit lost for a while" or "missed the turn to..." Oh, and if you puncture, you’re on your own unless you’ve convinced a buddy to tag along.
Tell us about your recent 200km ride. What was the route and the highlight?
I did the River Ride. It started in Hornsby, rolled through Castle Hill and North Richmond, then headed over River Road down to Wisemans Ferry, and out to St Albans on the sealed road. The return leg came back via Old Northern Road, turning left down into Galston Gorge to finish with a nice little sting in the tail.
The highlight was definitely the tranquillity. The weather was a perfect 10°C start with zero wind. A group of ten of us stayed together for the first 70km and had morning tea at North Richmond before the topography split us up. River Road was completely deserted with hardly any traffic, just beautiful and dead quiet.
Were there any moments where you were questioning your life choices?
Absolutely. The climb back from Wisemans Ferry up Laughtondale Gully Road. It is absolutely stunning, but a brutal 5km averaging about 5% with some much steeper pinches. It felt like it was going to go on forever. When you hit sections like that, you have no choice but to drop into an easy gear, keep yourself out of the red zone, and tap it out. Watching the remaining distance tick down on the head unit definitely helps manage the mental battle.
If someone wants to step up to an Audax, what kit and prep are essential?
You want to push your total weekly volume up over 200km. The MC Velo Sunday rides are perfect for this. If you’re feeling fresh, take some long turns on the front to build strength.
Cargo shorts are an absolute game-changer. The more pockets you have to stuff real food into, the better. You also need reflective details on your jersey, gilet, or jacket because you will be riding in low light or darkness. Always test new kit before a big day, so chat with Dave and the team at the MC Clubhouse if you need advice on the right endurance gear.
You need to be totally confident fixing a flat, putting a dropped chain back on, and handling basic mechanicals. Make sure your bike is freshly serviced before the event.
"Self-sufficient" can mean a lot of things. What’s inside your bike bags?
I pack for every scenario. Here is my checklist:
Electronics & Navigation
- 2 sets of lights (decent lumens and run time)
- Bike computer plus backup route on phone
- Power bank and charging cables
- Printed cue sheet
Spares & Tools
- Saddle bag and top tube bag
- Pump, 2 tubes and repair kit
- Multi-tool and small Leatherman pliers
- Chain breaker and quick link
- Cable ties and electrical tape
- Spare derailleur hanger
Hydration & Nutrition
- 2 large bidons
- Pockets packed with real food
- Band-aids (just in case)
Who should try this, and how do they start?
Honestly, anyone who wants to try something different and enjoys a long, steady day out on the bike. Plus, it’s incredibly cheap compared to massive Gran Fondos - it’s usually about $10 for Audax members or $30 for non-members.
If you want to dip your toe in, you don't have to jump into a 200km ride. Most events offer 50km, 100km, and 150km options, which are brilliant for getting a feel for the format. Pick a route that is relatively local or familiar so navigation isn't a stress.
Around Sydney, there are regularrides leaving from Rozelle, Jannali, and Hornsby. There are also large annual events like the Newcastle Overnighter in late November and the Festum Prophetae, or "The Festival of the Prophet", a worldwide celebration of The Prophet, Eddie Merckx's Birthday, every June.
Keep a close eye on the weather, prepare your layers, and ideally, convince an MC Velo friend to come with you so you can get lost together.
Check out the calendar on Audax Australia and I'll see you on the road!
Check out Frank’s inspired YouTube list:
