Cats forward James Podsiadly is on his bike – arguing the case for greater respect between drivers and cyclists on the road.
The star rookie is also on the campaign trail pushing the health benefits of pedal-power as he endorese the Bike Safe Share the Road message.
“Its the number one reason why I chose to be a part of it,” he said as he launched the campaign.
“Australia is the second most obese country in the world, population wise, and anything that promotes people gettin gout and being active is a real positive for not only Geelong but Australia, so I was really happy to get behind it.”
Share the Road is a locally-driven campaign prmoting better behaviour by cyclists and motorists, encouraging everyone to obey the road rules and to show courtesy and respect.
It highlights that under road rules, bicycles are considered vehicles and have a right to be on the roads.
“People need to show a little patience and good will,” Podsiadly said.
“Hopefully the authorities are doing their bit as well, to improve our on-road infrastructure in Geelong and the Surf Coast. Every little bit helps along the way.”
While the key tall doesn’t ride a bike “too often” he does drive a car every day and says he is going to keep a bigger watch our for cyclists.
Under Bike Safe, local road cyclist have taken an active role identifying problem areas for drivers and cyclists alike and seeking to make the region’s roads safer.
For Podsiadly, a keen health and fitness advocate, regular exercise, like cycling, improves cardiovascular fitness and can reduce the risk of diseases.
“Cycling is low impact on the body, helps muscle tone, improves bone mass and hels with personal weight management,” he said.
Making our roads safer and improving behaviour by all road users to on another, clearly encourages cyclists of all ages.”