This local cycling ‘tour’ proved in 2016 to be a test of the toughest with plenty of heat combining with a tough course. In 2017 the long course is still challenging but the weather should be more cycling friendly with the ride taking place on Sunday September 17.

This fourth edition of the local ride, proudly supported by BCU, takes in some of the great local roads and scenery with three lengths to suite riders of almost any ability.

The 25km route from the Showground to Bowraville and back is a pleasant ride which most people can finish easily in one-and-a-half hours.

The 50km ride heads out to South Arm Hall and then back to Bowraville while the 85km route is for riders who want to challenge themselves with an additional leg out to Argent Hill Hall on top of the South Arm leg.

Like last year the ride will start at the Macksville Showground and head across the Macksville Bridge before proceeding to Bowraville and beyond before returning to the showground … all around the river!

This year organisers are hoping to attract riders from far and wide along with more local participants.

With feedback from the 2016 riders, the organisers have added a value family entry for the ride and have moved the race date to the start of NSW Bike Week, Sunday September 17 at 9am.

Proceeds from the event are used to support cycling in the Nambucca Valley along with contributions to other local sporting clubs, schools and community groups.

So start chipping the ruts off the old bike or hit the road for some serious training – the Ride Around The River (RATR) will have something for everyone in 2017.

Entry is available online at: www.macksvillecycle.com.au/ratr