Competitors are getting set to line up on the grid for the UniSA Australian Human Powered Vehicle Super Series (AHPVSS), or Pedal Prix as it is colloquially known, which kicks off later this month in Mount Gambier, South Australia.
This year’s Series also includes races at Tailem Bend for the first time, in addition to the well-known circuits of Adelaide and Murray Bridge in South Australia, and Busselton in Western Australia.
A strong field of 80 teams will travel to Mount Gambier, in the South-East of South Australia, for Round 1 on March 27.
Now in its 36th year the first pedal prix race was held in 1985 with less than a dozen teams – and the popularity of the event has continued to grow.
After the Series was cancelled in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic, organisers and competitors are keen to get back on the track in 2021.
Series Chairman Andrew McLachlan says race organisers were excited to be organising the UniSA Australian Human Powered Vehicle Super Series for 2021.
“After a year in which COVID-19 restrictions led to the cancellation of all races, the prospect of a return to operations, albeit modified, is a welcome outcome,’’ Mr McLachlan says.
“To be doing so in partnership again with the University of South Australia is particularly pleasing.
The University of South Australia is once again sponsoring the six race Series, which it has supported for the past 12 years.
UniSA Vice Chancellor Professor David Lloyd wishes all competitors well for the 2021 series.
“This exciting race series is designed to develop competitors’ teamwork, enterprise, technological and engineering skills, as well as fitness and health,’’ Prof Lloyd says.
“It also highlights the value of research and innovation and the development of sustainable communities.
“I wish all competitors the very best of luck for the series – and above all hope everyone learns a lot and has fun.’’
Mr McLachlan says enthusiasm about the event was as strong as ever with healthy numbers registered for all rounds.
“Having said that, we will be taking things race by race, as we still live in a COVID world, and careful attendance to health and safety guidelines and regulations remains paramount.”
The full calendar for the 2021 UniSA Australian Human Powered Vehicle Super Series is:
