With the Melbourne Tour de PIF gearing up for a start on 18 November, it’s fantastic to see so many women and novice riders joining the peloton in 2022.
Ceschino Director Manuela Marasco is thrilled to be leading a new wave of entrants as part of the female-dominated group, The Wheel Deal. “The Property Industry Foundation experienced a magnificent turning point last year, with more novice and female riders attending,” she says. “I think this will continue to gain momentum, as people realise that they are actually capable of doing the event – all you need to do is some training and belief in yourself!”
The Wheel Deal was established by Belinda Coates in 2021 and along with Manuela and GPT’s Rachelle Hume, they encouraged 20+ novice riders to train and compete in the tour. All three are members of the Tour de PIF Melbourne organising committee and are passionate about raising funds to support homeless youth.
“This year the aim is to continue the enthusiasm and comradeship we established last year,” says Manuela. “We have similar numbers of female participants this year with just as much enthusiasm and courage!” The Wheel Deal is sponsored by Slattery, Korex, Buildcorp, Planex, GPT, Gray Puksand, Hot Black, Gallagher Jeffs, Ceshino, Hansen Yuncken and Arup and is already competitive on the Melbourne fundraising leaderboard.
A former Victorian Road Series racer, Manuela says the Tour de PIF provides the perfect opportunity for women in the construction and property industry to unwind meet new people. “There’s a lot of on-road support and other cyclists to meet and keep you company on the road,” she enthuses. “Catching up with colleagues outside of an office environment is fantastic and what makes the Tour de PIF such a popular event. It’s a healthy way to unwind from the stresses of a work week and a wonderful way to meet new people.”
