World's elite cyclist encourages Greenbushes kids to get on their bikes

Marianne Vos, Moniek Tenniglo, Robbie McEwen were joined by Crikey Cadel as they answered several thought-provoking questions from the group of pupils aged 5 to 11 at the school grounds.

Multiple-time world champion Vos answered questions about her longest and toughest rides, her biggest crashes, and her pre-ride diet.

The riders emphasised the importance of bike safety and wearing a helmet.

Vos told the children she had been riding a bicycle since she was 6 in her small hometown, and encouraged them to cycle to and from school if they could.

Australian former professional road bicycle racer McEwen was the host of the session and said the Greenbushes children came up with some of the best set of questions he had received from a school group.

It was Vos’ first time visiting Western Australia.

“It is definitely worth the trip,” she said.

“We aren’t so used to the distances between towns and the quietness.”

Everyone in Holland learned to ride bicycles from the age of 4 or 5, she said.

“I think it’s really important for children to do different sports and to know the importance of keeping active.”

The two-time Olympic gold medallist made the exclusive visit to Greenbushes Primary School ahead of the Tour of Margaret River Road Cycle Race.