My name is Andrew Thompson. I've worked in men's fitness, nutrition, and beauty for 25+ years. I'm also a coach and Commissaire with AusCycling.
I ride bikes every night, both on road and off. As long as I'm on two wheels, I'm happy, and there's absolutely no better way to stay fit.
One night a week, I hold an informal social ride - the Tuesday Townie - around the streets of Rockhampton, to give people a chance to get involved.
The weather is milder at night and there are less cars around. It's really a great time to ride.
And it's free 😁 so what are you waiting for?
Read all about it below. Call me on 4926 7778 or 0422 276 202 if you have any questions.
Have a brilliant day,
Andrew Thompson.
FAQ - Social Road Cycling Night Rides
When are the social night rides held?
Weather permitting, we ride each Tuesday night at 7pm. I find this start time the best, as the temperature is mild enough to ride in all seasons, plus most of the traffic has died down.
How do I know if a ride is on this week?
I post events at Man Thing on Facebook. If nothing is up by 11am Tuesday, I'm working late or the weather looks bleak, so the ride isn't happening.
If you don't have FB, that's fine, just phone or text me and I'll tell you if it's on.
I run other fitness activities as well, including mountain bike social rides and kayaking, which I also post as events, so you might find some other activities to take part in as well.
I'm worried I won't keep up.
Don't stress too much. There's often one or two people who fall behind, but we pull up and wait at the next corner or landmark to keep everyone roughly together as a group.
For the most part, we stick around the pace of the weakest rider. This isn't a hardcore racing pack. It's a social ride for fitness, not egos.
You'll find that your fitness increases quickly with subsequent rides, especially if you're taking steps to eat healthy and manage your weight.
Obviously, check with your doctor before commencing any new sports activity.
I'm not into big groups and clubs.
Me neither. Typical group size is 2 to 4 riders.
Where do we meet up?
Meet up point is the car park at Man Thing.
Are you insured I have an accident?
No. I, and by extension, Man Thing, offer no guarantees for your safety, nor take any responsibility if you have an accident.
I have no control over your actions or those of other cyclists and drivers.
I'm just a bloke going for a ride, and providing a meet up point for anyone who wants to tag along. If you choose to, that's fine, but your safety is entirely up to you.
What do I need?
- Your bicycle needs to be mechanically sound. Gears, tyres, brakes should all be in good working order.
- Helmet and closed shoes. Clothing choice is up to you.
- A fully charged front and rear light are absolutely essential.
- Mosquito repellent if it's rained in the past week.
- Water bottle, basic tools for repairs, spare tube, a pump, phone, and personal first aid kit for treating minor injuries.
- You should be street smart and follow the road rules. We'll sometimes ride on the footpath or through a park but we don't run red lights or make motorists hate us.