The Dwellingup 100 took place on Saturday 17th September, in Western Australia. The town is one and a half hours drive south of Perth, and offers a great selection of riding, including part of the Munda Biddi trail. About 900 racers were signed up, which is around 100 more than in 2011.
The victor in 2011, Andrew Blair (Swell-Redshift) returned again to defend his win, and to use the event as one of the last, but crucial, elements in his XCM World Championship preparation. Being one week before his flight to Europe, and three weeks before the Marathon World Championships in Ornans, France – the timing of the race was perfect for the 2012 Australian Marathon Champion. “That’s the main reason I went” admitted Blair – although he has previously stated how much he enjoyed the race in 2011.
Andy Blair sprints John Greg for the win at the 2012 Dwellingup 100
According to Blair, the race soon turned into a group of five. John Greg, David Hind, Craig Cook, Pete Hatton and himself were alone soon after the start. Keen for a solid workout before the Worlds, Blair said he made it as hard as possible, riding on the front more than normal. The pace helped thin the small group further. Hatton was distanced, along with Hind, and Cook suffered a broken chain.
With just himself and a strong John Greg left at the front, Blair attacked at about 25km to go. All good, until he blew up – most likely from dehydration. Blair said he knew he would get caught – but as he saw Greg advancing, his approaching speed was so slow he must have been in a similar shape. With the two back together, Greg attacked. Blair covered it easily enough and with a wry shrug they rode in, Greg riding on the front for the last 5km.
Coming down to a sprint, Blair took line honours. Leoni Burford won the women’s race in front of Melanie Webb. Full results can be seen online.
The Dwellingup 100 is one of a few popular events in Western Australia that draw a crowd from around the country. Next up, the Cape to Cape.