In what many local cyclists would see as a fitting move, a Bathurst cycling store is set to undergo a rebirth under the famous 'Renshaw' name.
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Internationally renowned Bathurst cyclist Mark Renshaw and his wife, Kristina, have assumed ownership of Wheeler Cycles Bathurst which, as of next Friday [May 8], will adopt a new name: Renshaw's Pedal Project.
Since retiring from professional cycling and moving back to his home town, Renshaw said he and Kristina have been keen to give back to the Bathurst cycling community.
"I'm looking forward to promoting our local clubs where cycling's a key component in the store, including the Bathust Cycling Club, Bathurst Wallabies Triathlon Club and the Bathurst Mountain Bike Club," he said.
"Kristina and I have a lot to learn in the retail business, but we're looking forward to working with the existing team in order to create Bathurst's 'go-to' hub for all cycling needs."
The new business will retain the existing Wheeler Cycles Bathurst team as well as a prominent new face: Greg 'Belly' Bell, who is closing Belly's Bikes after nearly 15 years to join the Renshaws in the new venture.
"It was Kristina's idea to approach 'Belly' about the new venture and while it is sad to see his business clothing, his experience and clientele will prove invaluable to the new direction," Renshaw said.
"We'll still have Kirsten Howard, David Hughes and Jayden Falcke on hand, who have built an outstanding relationship with the Bathurst cycling community over the past few years."
Bell, who has built a great rapport with the community through his previous business over the years, said the new direction makes perfect sense.
"Rather than continue as separate entities, it now makes more sense for us to work together for the betterment the cycling community," he said.
"We're all in it for the same reason; for the love of cycling and fitness; and our shared experience will be of further benefit to local cyclists."
In addition to the business, Renshaw is hoping to incorporate some of his old bikes and jerseys as display items.
"I've collected over 120 jerseys from throughout my career for display, as well as a bike for each team I raced with," he said.
Renshaw said he's appreciative of all the support from the Bathurst community over the years, and hopes the new venture will continue to encourage talented cyclists.
"The 'project' is to get everybody in Bathurst on a bike, whether it be a kids, mountain or high-end road variant," he said.
"Cycling is growing in Bathurst, and the COVID-19 situation has had zero impact on sales and maintenance."