Marie Wensing
Name: Marie Wensing
Occupation: Director, University Accommodation Australian National University, Canberra
When I was a kid: I was number two of seven, you'd think that would make me competitive!
I'd love to meet: John Flynn - a man of vision
When and why did you become interested in cycling? In 1993 I saw an advert for a bike ride in NZ. I bought a bike, found a friend who was interested (my husband thought I was crazy, but only until I came back), and we did an 800km route in the South Island. After that my husband brought a bike and so began our love affair with cycle touring.
What do you think you get out of cycling? Relaxation, sheer pleasure and the opportunity to see places I wouldn't see otherwise.
On average how many kilometres do you ride a week and with whom? Don't know. I ride when I can a 32km round trip to work on the mornings I don't go to the gym. Usually I average three times a week, by myself. Ad hoc on the weekend we join a Pedal Power ride, or else we go for a jaunt in the bush or to see an exhibition or the like. Cycling is never a 'have to' commitment, I cycle because I want to.
Describe you most memorable ride? All of them really, but equally vivid are - Alice Springs to Canberra to celebrate Federation, the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Byron Bay to Wangaratta with a great group of friends, two special outback rides with the Silver City Bush Treadlers - Cameron Corner to Coongee Lakes, and Yunta to Hawker SA via Arkaroola. The best is yet to come, Broken Hill to Darwin (the back way) in July 08.
Give us a description of a ride you would rather forget? I wouldn't forget it but the first time I did Round the Bay in a Day (Melbourne) was ummm 'memorable'.
What is your favourite post cycle beverage? Tonic water (no gin).
What is your favourite cycle energy food? A good breakfast and take a banana.
How do you cope with cold winter mornings? Wear a balaclava and good gloves.
Is there anything that can be done to improve the on road relationship between cyclists and motorists? We can only control our own behaviour - so courtesy and patience.
What advice can you give those who are thinking of taking up cycling? Women should never feel they only deserve their husband's cast-off bike - get one that fits you and find other women to ride with. It's not all about the bike; it's also about fun in good company.
Experience has taught me that: I can do anything when I make a plan.
Who inspires you the most? Other women who try.
What is your life/cycle philosophy? Have wheels will travel - may I always have the health to do so. I never come off one holiday without at least conceptually planning the next.
I often daydream about: retirement in some form, which involves not having to rush a bike tour because my leave has run out.
When you are not cycling you are: planning my next holiday, working, singing, helping at Pedal Power or gardening.
When all else fails - sing!