Australian's Original and Number One Alpine Training Camp for Cyclists!
Next Camps...
Melbourne Cup Weekend Oct 30 - 3 Nov 2009
and
Feb 19 - Feb 23 2010
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For the cyclist that likes a challenge...
Wide open roads, no traffic lights, little traffic and great mountain scenery....
If you're a serious recreational or racing cyclists that wants to get more out of your cycling then the Bright Boot Camp is for you!
Taking part in one of Australia's most scenic Alpine areas, the Bright Boot Camp will give you the chance to climb Mt Buffalo, Mt Hotham, Tawonga Gap and Falls Creek during four days of intense cycling heaven.
Want to Ride in the Bright Boot Camp for free and Win a Free iPOD* Shuffle!?
All you have to do is compete the following survey and
you'll be in the draw to win a free place on the camp and a iPod Shuffle!
Your feedback will help us
make the Bright Boot Camp the best cycling camp!
You can still enter if you have already enrolled into the
Bright Boot Camp. If you win the draw you will have your
enrolment fees credited back to you!
*Note: Cycling-Inform does not promote or recommend the use of portable audio devices and mobile phones while riding on open roads. The use of such devices can hinder your ability to ride and can lead to accidents which also could possibly be fatal.
Click here to enter into the draw to win a free place on the camp!
What is the Bright Boot Camp About?
The
Bright Boot Camp is structured around either the serious recreational
rider or club racing rider who is looking for a challenging four days
of riding.
The Camp is focused on
helping improve your fitness and general wellbeing as a cyclist. In the
evenings we provide informative lectures on improving cycling
performance.
We regularly have riders
going up a racing grade after the camp. We also have riders use the
camp as training for their mid year European cycling trip or for the
Tour of Bright.
Is there a difference between the Nov and Feb/March camps?
The Melbourne Cup weekend Camp does have a slight focus towards final preparation for the Tour of Bright race which is run in the area four weekends later. However, we ensure that this doesn't deviate from the serious recreational rider's enjoyment of the camp. It’s also a cooler time of the year than the Feb/March camp. The Feb/March camp is still as tough and usually the weather is a little hotter.
Who attends the camp?
Riders that attend the Camp are keen races or serious recreational cyclists that may have ridden rides like "Around the bay in a day", "The Alpine Classic" or the "Great Victorian bike ride" and are looking for the next big event. This is not to say that people that haven't ridden these events can't come to the camp. We get a good cross section of abilities and cater for them accordingly. Riders or groups of riders can also attend the camp and provide their own accommodation if they choose. We have people from all-around Australia and New Zealand attend the camp.
How hard is it? This is four big days of riding through some of the largest accessible climbs to cyclists in Australia. You do need to have a good cycling base before coming to this camp. For some, the weekend is filled with just four things; riding, attending the seminars, eating and sleeping. We do have shorter versions of the rides for those that want to take it a little easier or don't meet the fitness requirements to climb to the top of Hotham and Falls Creek. Click here to check out the course details.
Do you have on road support? Yes, we provide comprehensive on road assistance to all riders in the form of support vehicles and support riders that perform "domestique" duties and provide a one-on-one coaching.
Find out more frequently asked questions here
Take Action!
There are strictly a limited number of spaces available. Early booking is essential to ensure you secure your place. Please register your interest so that you can keep up with the latest news and updates leading up to our camp weekends.Look forward to seeing you there!
Regards,
David Heatley.
Click here to book your place now and avoid disappointment!
Recent News
Feb 2009 Camp images posted!
- Published 8/03/2009
Latest Testimonials from the Feb 2009 camp
- Published 20/02/2009
Chris
Pennifold - QLD
What an excellent four days of cycling! I found the terrain hard, challenging, breathtaking and fantastic! I have learnt a great deal from both the instructor/support riders as well as other cyclists that attended the camp. A special mention to Marina without her massaging skills I wouldn’t have got through the four days. This camp has filled me with confidence as well as providing a clear indication as to where I am and what I need to do to get to the next step! I am intending to make some significant gains upon my return to Buffalo. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience, even the pain! We had many laughs at each other, about each other and amongst each other – overall a fantastic time and looking forward to the next time.
Mark Landells - QLD
Well I think I am officially a Bright Boot Camp junky now – this was my third Boot Camp and probably the toughest in terms of the conditions we faced. In spite of this, I just loved my four days in beautiful Bright and the riding was as usual, awesome. This four day camp is something that should be a recurring event in every serious cyclist’s training calendar. In my opinion Bright should be made the cycling Mecca for Australia – true alpine climbs, beautiful mountain scenery and open country roads. David and Jodie have this four day camp nailed for all round organisation, great support riders, very relevant lectures and excellent hospitality… and all this at a very reasonable price. If you are a serious cyclist and want to take your riding to the next level whilst riding with likeminded and motivated people, the Bright Boot Camp is a must do event. See you next year guys… I can’t wait!!
Priscilla Cutter - VIC
As a first time Boot Camper and battling a few post accident demons, my goal was to reach the top of Mt Buffalo. On a new bike and relatively untrained, I attained that goal but only through the perseverance of David & the support mentor and motivator extraordinaire 'Mick' who unleashed my 'inner positive self' and coerced me to finish the last 4kms. I can't express in words the feeling of self confidence that has ebbed back into my riding since. And as added 'gravy' for me was the ride up Towonga Gap the following day, where Jodie discovered my 'third lung' capability and taught me some invaluable one-on one descending skills. Out-take. Complete, with vital warm ups from Matt Brindle and some excellent positive thinking skills from Brendan Rowbotham I will definitely set myself a goal to train for right Jan 2010 with renewed confidence. Thank you, here's to next year.
Lloyd Killmore - VIC
An amazing 4 days on the bike. It is a time to forget about traffic lights and getting to work on time. With full vehicle support, your only focus is on reaching the many summits. A truly challenging and rewarding experience.
Cheers, Lloyd
Bill Bailey - WA
Hi David and Jodie, Thanks for a great 4 day camp - I will remember it for a long time and may well be back on another one. It has changed my view on enjoying climbing while you are actually climbing rather than enjoying the satisfaction at the end of a climb. The difference is climbing in the Perth hills is generally hot with sandy bush/scrub to look at which is pretty dull compared to climbing through the alpine region of Victoria where there are actually bends in the road and beautiful scenery with hardly any traffic and certainly no semi-trailers. I would give a special thanks also to Brendan (or Snowy as i have learnt he is called by some of his old mates in the West) and Mad Mick and Marina for all the encouragement and entertainment they gave us.
Mick Day - Malvern, VIC
I'll get on line later this week and do a proper thank you, but just want to say what a great time I had. If ever you need any support riders for weekend stuff don't hesitate to ask. Absolutely loved it and can't wait to hit the nongs on the weekend ... or maybe Baw Baw. Mick
What an excellent four days of cycling! I found the terrain hard, challenging, breathtaking and fantastic! I have learnt a great deal from both the instructor/support riders as well as other cyclists that attended the camp. A special mention to Marina without her massaging skills I wouldn’t have got through the four days. This camp has filled me with confidence as well as providing a clear indication as to where I am and what I need to do to get to the next step! I am intending to make some significant gains upon my return to Buffalo. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience, even the pain! We had many laughs at each other, about each other and amongst each other – overall a fantastic time and looking forward to the next time.
Mark Landells - QLD
Well I think I am officially a Bright Boot Camp junky now – this was my third Boot Camp and probably the toughest in terms of the conditions we faced. In spite of this, I just loved my four days in beautiful Bright and the riding was as usual, awesome. This four day camp is something that should be a recurring event in every serious cyclist’s training calendar. In my opinion Bright should be made the cycling Mecca for Australia – true alpine climbs, beautiful mountain scenery and open country roads. David and Jodie have this four day camp nailed for all round organisation, great support riders, very relevant lectures and excellent hospitality… and all this at a very reasonable price. If you are a serious cyclist and want to take your riding to the next level whilst riding with likeminded and motivated people, the Bright Boot Camp is a must do event. See you next year guys… I can’t wait!!
Priscilla Cutter - VIC
As a first time Boot Camper and battling a few post accident demons, my goal was to reach the top of Mt Buffalo. On a new bike and relatively untrained, I attained that goal but only through the perseverance of David & the support mentor and motivator extraordinaire 'Mick' who unleashed my 'inner positive self' and coerced me to finish the last 4kms. I can't express in words the feeling of self confidence that has ebbed back into my riding since. And as added 'gravy' for me was the ride up Towonga Gap the following day, where Jodie discovered my 'third lung' capability and taught me some invaluable one-on one descending skills. Out-take. Complete, with vital warm ups from Matt Brindle and some excellent positive thinking skills from Brendan Rowbotham I will definitely set myself a goal to train for right Jan 2010 with renewed confidence. Thank you, here's to next year.
Lloyd Killmore - VIC
An amazing 4 days on the bike. It is a time to forget about traffic lights and getting to work on time. With full vehicle support, your only focus is on reaching the many summits. A truly challenging and rewarding experience.
Cheers, Lloyd
Bill Bailey - WA
Hi David and Jodie, Thanks for a great 4 day camp - I will remember it for a long time and may well be back on another one. It has changed my view on enjoying climbing while you are actually climbing rather than enjoying the satisfaction at the end of a climb. The difference is climbing in the Perth hills is generally hot with sandy bush/scrub to look at which is pretty dull compared to climbing through the alpine region of Victoria where there are actually bends in the road and beautiful scenery with hardly any traffic and certainly no semi-trailers. I would give a special thanks also to Brendan (or Snowy as i have learnt he is called by some of his old mates in the West) and Mad Mick and Marina for all the encouragement and entertainment they gave us.
Mick Day - Malvern, VIC
I'll get on line later this week and do a proper thank you, but just want to say what a great time I had. If ever you need any support riders for weekend stuff don't hesitate to ask. Absolutely loved it and can't wait to hit the nongs on the weekend ... or maybe Baw Baw. Mick
Bright Boot Camp 2009 another great weekend away - early news release
- Published 11/02/2009
Here are some of the PIX from our recent boot camp. check back in the next few days for a full camp report.
Carey Goodall from Adelaide in group three putting the hammer down on the way to the base of the Mt Hotham climb. He can't wait to get there. Carey took 20 mins off his Buffalo climb from his last camp to post a new personal best. Well done Carey!
Jodie Batchelor smashing out another hill repeat on Mt Hotham with a big smile on her face. Even sprinters can find joy in climbing big climbs.
Mark Landells, Michael Coomans, Bill Bailey, Chris Pennifold and the rest of group two out on the road with Brendan Rowbotham in support.
Kelvin Oldridge and Danny Kah taking a small part of group one up Mt Hotham.
Harry Hanley on his way up the Meg on Mt Hotham seated with Stephan Millet in the background just starting the climb.
Brendan Rowbotham, Chris and Lloyd Killmore and other riders from group one on their way up Mt Buffalo.
Marek Marchewa, Michael Day, Jeff Crosbie, Kelvin Oldridge and some of group one riding into the sky on Mt Hotham (that's cloud not smoke)
Chris Killmore and Kelvin Oldridge carefully descending Mt Hotham with low visibility.
Not all hard riding. Bill Bailey and Jeff Crosbie from WA with friends at our coffee stop on the last day.
36 riders ready for a big 4 days of riding.
Carey Goodall from Adelaide in group three putting the hammer down on the way to the base of the Mt Hotham climb. He can't wait to get there. Carey took 20 mins off his Buffalo climb from his last camp to post a new personal best. Well done Carey!
Jodie Batchelor smashing out another hill repeat on Mt Hotham with a big smile on her face. Even sprinters can find joy in climbing big climbs.
Mark Landells, Michael Coomans, Bill Bailey, Chris Pennifold and the rest of group two out on the road with Brendan Rowbotham in support.
Kelvin Oldridge and Danny Kah taking a small part of group one up Mt Hotham.
Harry Hanley on his way up the Meg on Mt Hotham seated with Stephan Millet in the background just starting the climb.
Brendan Rowbotham, Chris and Lloyd Killmore and other riders from group one on their way up Mt Buffalo.
Marek Marchewa, Michael Day, Jeff Crosbie, Kelvin Oldridge and some of group one riding into the sky on Mt Hotham (that's cloud not smoke)
Chris Killmore and Kelvin Oldridge carefully descending Mt Hotham with low visibility.
Not all hard riding. Bill Bailey and Jeff Crosbie from WA with friends at our coffee stop on the last day.
New profiles released!
- Published 2/10/2008
We have partnered with Cycling Profiles to bring you detailed profiles and course routes for all four days of the Bright Boot Camp.
» Read More
» Read More
New shorter rides introduced this year
- Published 20/06/2008
There is no doubt that the full four days of the Bright Boot Camp are tough. Keeping this in mind we are now offering shorted rides for those that want to experience the fantastic ambience that the Bright Alpine region has to offer without having to totally commit to the four big days. Every day is flexible so you can now tailor your Bright Boot Camp experience as you ride. It's also great if you plan to bring your family or partner up with you. Now you can customise your Bright Boot Camp to fit your family time commitments and differing fitness levels between you and your partner. What's more is that you won't be riding alone.
You'll still have on road support and be riding with people of similar ability!
» Read More
Recent Articles
Will I get left in the dust?
- By Cycling Inform
- Published 5/06/2009
- Frequently asked questions
I am very interested in coming along to your November Bright Boot Camp. However I am seeking a bit of re-assurance. I have read your FAQs and am pretty sure I can meet the fitness requirements with some training between now and Nov. But I am certainly not the fastest girl on 2 wheels. Is your camp aimed at elite cyclists? Or do keen recreational cyclists, like me, come long for a challenge, meet nice people and enjoy some lovely scenary? Do you have many women attend the camp? I am just a bit worried about turning up to a group of semi-professional cyclists who leave me for dust. Thanks, Ann.
Hi Ann! Thanks for your question. We have a blend of elite cyclists and keen recreational cyclists that attend every camp. On the first day we seed the riders and place them in a group that is appropriate for them for the rest of the camp. That way they get to ride with riders of the same ability. The groups each have different agendas. Group A generally go flat out where as group C, and I quote you "come long for a challenge, meet nice people and enjoy some lovely scenery". So you would certainly would not be out of place. If it all gets too hard then we offer the cafe rides that Jodie; my wife takes out. We even have some of group A join us for this ride on the last day.
The number of woman that attend the camp varies from camp to camp. We generally get quite a few to each camp.
Hope that helps answer your questions. Please call me if you want further assurance. Regards, David Heatley 0410 331 793.
Hi Ann! Thanks for your question. We have a blend of elite cyclists and keen recreational cyclists that attend every camp. On the first day we seed the riders and place them in a group that is appropriate for them for the rest of the camp. That way they get to ride with riders of the same ability. The groups each have different agendas. Group A generally go flat out where as group C, and I quote you "come long for a challenge, meet nice people and enjoy some lovely scenery". So you would certainly would not be out of place. If it all gets too hard then we offer the cafe rides that Jodie; my wife takes out. We even have some of group A join us for this ride on the last day.
The number of woman that attend the camp varies from camp to camp. We generally get quite a few to each camp.
Hope that helps answer your questions. Please call me if you want further assurance. Regards, David Heatley 0410 331 793.
Bright Boot Camp Feb 2009 A survivor's story
- By Cycling Inform
- Published 8/03/2009
- Camp reports
Written By Carey Goodall - SA
The following account of the February 2009 Bright Boot Camp is written from the perspective of a keen recreational rider. Whilst the Bright Boot Camp attracts some supremely fit athletes capable of blasting up the mountains at near warp speed, the camp also caters for the moderately fit cyclist who just wants to test themselves up some seriously big hills, in a relatively safe and supportive environment.
The Bright Boot Camp "smile of achivement" from Carey.
The following account of the February 2009 Bright Boot Camp is written from the perspective of a keen recreational rider. Whilst the Bright Boot Camp attracts some supremely fit athletes capable of blasting up the mountains at near warp speed, the camp also caters for the moderately fit cyclist who just wants to test themselves up some seriously big hills, in a relatively safe and supportive environment.
The Bright Boot Camp "smile of achivement" from Carey.
November 2008 Bright Boot Camp - Another Camp to Remember!
- By Cycling Inform
- Published 17/11/2008
- Camp reports
November 2008 Bright Boot Camp - Ride report
January 2008 Bright Boot Camp – Stunning weather, fantastic scenery!
- By Cycling Inform
- Published 12/02/2008
- Camp reports
January 2008 Bright Boot Camp - Ride report
November 2007 Bright Boot Camp - Camp to Remember!
- By Cycling Inform
- Published 12/12/2007
- Camp reports
November 2007 Bright Boot Camp - Ride report
January 2007 Bright Boot Camp - A total success!
- By Cycling Inform
- Published 12/02/2007
- Camp reports
January 2007 Bright Boot Camp - Ride report
