Go for Broke is a challenging ride from the city to the Hunter Valley

The Go for Broke bike ride is a charity ride in the Hawkesbury and Hunter Valley region. It’s the chance to enjoy the roads less travelled from Berowra, North Sydney through to Broke in the Hunter Valley.

Over the day, you’ll be covering 180km with 2000+m of elevation gain.

The start point at Berowra is about 40 km north of the Sydney CBD. It will take about 45 minutes by car. There are train options through to Berowra station from the Central Station,  again check your local transport service for the timetable.

There are five pelotons, based upon average speed for the undulating and sometimes hilly course.

The ride initially heads west away from the Princes Highway, and then turns north with the small undulations before the descent into Wisemans Ferry, where you’ll cross the Hawkesbury River.  From here you’ll follow the river towards Glenworth Valley. You’ll then have the climb of the day at the McPherson State Forest near Mangrove for a 350 m elevation gain. Then shortly afterwards, it’s the descent heading towards the back of the valleys behind Cessnock, before arriving at the small town of Broke. 

The Go for Broke bike ride is billed as Sydney’s longest one-day event. It is restricted to 100 riders, so you’ll need to register early, as places go quickly.

There is a coach to transport you and your bike back to the start. Or you could stay and enjoy the weekend in the Hunter Valley.

This cycling event raises money for the Lifeline charity, to help with the increasing demand for it’s 24/7 crisis and support services around the Harbour and Hawkesbury region.

The weather in Sydney and the Lower Hunter Valley at this time of year is in the middle of spring, with temperatures rising. It is generally around 10 degrees in the morning before rising through to 25  degrees Celsius. You may receive some rain (50% chance at this time of year) if it does, it should only be up to 5mm if at all, more a heavy drizzle.  Make sure you bring a gilet or a light jacket.

This is an interesting ride,  which is about changing the face of mental health and how to beat depression.

If you find yourself in Sydney then jump on board.

You’ll find other great cycling events, like Go for Broke, in our online Cycling Event Calendar.

Enjoy!