Pedal to the metal in six-hour challenge

Three teams of South West high school students were among the competitors at the Busselton Six Hour Pedal Prix on August 18.

Two Bunbury Catholic College teams and another from Bunbury Senior High School took to the 850m circuit on the Busselton foreshore and raced wheel to wheel with some of the State’s HPV (human powered vehicle) racers over six gruelling hours.

“Even though there were problems, we all sorted it out, we all had goes and it was just really fun,” BCC student Pippa Bouteloup said.

Pippa’s teammate Chloe Garrett said racing against university-backed teams could be daunting, especially in the tighter parts of the circuit, but agreed with her peer the event was a great experience.

With a number of structural and mechanical issues, the BCC teams finished the six-hour event in 47th and 48th overall, 13 places behind their BSHS compatriots who finished 34th.

“We really enjoyed the day and found the race invigorating,” BSHS student Annabelle Heyworth said.

“The race never dragged on and each student was ready and raring to improve their speed and riding.”

All three teams have set about improving their vehicles ready for next year’s event, with the BCC teams set to focus on optimising their gearing and shedding some excess weight while BSHS will focus on improving cabin ventilation so drivers can stay cooler.