Cycling on Brisbane's motorways without a car in sight is a rare opportunity, and one that a group of ADF cyclists seized as they battled it out on four expressways, three tunnels, two bridges and one major mountain climb, while dodging crashes brought on by wet weather.
For many, the Tour de Brisbane was just a fun ride, but for others, it was a shot at qualifying for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships.
ADF cyclist Major Andrew Pham was one of those qualifiers, earning his spot in the 120km race for the 35-39 age group, finishing 165th out of 2712 riders.
He said road racing required many considerations, like managing energy intake, hydration and monitoring what's ahead. At the same time, you have to watch other riders, keep track of race position and prepare for key turns or climbs.
"It's full-on, but that's part of the fun," Major Pham said.
Petty Officer David McPhee, who raced in the 50-54 age group - the largest category of the day - said he was happy to cross the finish line.
The toughest part, he said, was the climb up Mount Coot-tha, but the drying roads after the rain made a big difference.
'It was a well-supported event and great to meet other Defence members that I've never met before.'
Since taking up cycling six years ago, he found it a game-changer for his health and wellbeing.
"I never liked running or going to the gym, but I really enjoy this," Petty Officer McPhee said.
Flight Sergeant Michael Arnold, who competed in the 45-49 age group, said his main priority was staying safe, especially with the wet conditions when the race started.
He witnessed several accidents, attributing them to cyclists "racing for sheep stations", pushing themselves to their limits on wet roads.
"That's why I stayed towards the back of the group and let all the fast guys go. I didn't want to get caught up in the hype and rush of having to be first. I just let the carnage unfold in front of me," Flight Sergeant Arnold said.
Towards the back-end of the race, many riders were pulled over on the side of the road, cramping up after misjudging their nutrition and training.
"People weren't drinking enough - some didn't carry enough water because they prioritised speed," Flight Sergeant Arnold said.
He said the race wasn't just about the ride, but the people he met along the way.
"It was a well-supported event and great to meet other Defence members that I've never met before. Hopefully, those networks will lead to future interactions," Flight Sergeant Arnold said.
