Senior School

Report on Ryder Evans: Road Racing Achievements and Aspirations

Year 12 Student’s Journey in Competitive Cycling

Ryder Evans, currently a Year 12 student, has established himself as a dedicated and ambitious road cyclist. With a passion ignited at a young age, Ryder has committed six years to road riding and has spent the past five years actively racing. His steady progress in the sport is marked by national and international experiences, significant competitive results, and a clear set of future goals that reach as far as the Olympic Games.

Road Racing Experience and Development

Ryder began road riding six years ago, transitioning into competitive racing one year later. Over the last five years, he has honed his racing skills and tactical acumen, participating in local, state, and national events. His first foray into national-level competition came two years ago, providing invaluable exposure to the rigors and standards of elite Australian cycling.

International Training and Competition

In 2024 and 2025, Ryder seized the opportunity to broaden his horizons by spending the school holidays in Europe. This formative experience included intensive training with a European road racing coach and participating in a week-long training camp set in the picturesque yet challenging landscapes of Italy. The camp featured a demanding 138km course that ascended a total elevation of 5,500 meters—a true test of both endurance and climbing prowess.

Ryder also competed in two open-age 50km road races in the Cotswolds, UK. Despite racing against older and more seasoned competitors, he achieved remarkable results, finishing 2nd and 4th in these events. These performances underscore his ability to adapt quickly to international racing environments and to hold his own against strong opposition.

Racing for Giant Hampton

Ryder is a proud member of the Giant Hampton cycling team, a position that affords him access to top-tier equipment at wholesale prices. This partnership not only provides Ryder with the technical support necessary to compete at a high level but also embeds him in a community of motivated and skilled riders.

State-Level Competitions and Ambitions

On the domestic front, Ryder has contested the State Titles Road Racing event at the Phillip Island (PI) Racetrack, pitting his talents against the best in Victoria. His competitive drive is matched by his long-term ambition to race semi-professionally across different continents and, ultimately, to secure a place on a professional cycling team. The pinnacle of his aspirations is clear: to represent Australia at the Olympics in Brisbane in 2032.

Challenges and Resilience

Ryder’s journey has not been without setbacks. In December 2024, he suffered a serious accident during a national-level race in wet conditions. The fall resulted in a dislocated elbow and a damaged hip, necessitating surgery and 30 stitches in his hip and left elbow. This injury forced Ryder out of racing for two weeks—a period that tested his mental resilience and temporarily affected his confidence and competitiveness. Nevertheless, Ryder has demonstrated remarkable determination in overcoming these challenges, using the experience as motivation to return stronger both physically and mentally.

Future Plans

Ryder’s commitment to cycling is so profound that he is prepared to defer university if his pursuits in the sport continue to progress. His vision for the future is both ambitious and inspiring: to race semi-professionally around the world, secure a position on a professional cycling team, and strive for Olympic success on home soil in Brisbane.

With his track record of dedication, resilience, and impressive results, Ryder Evans stands out as a young cyclist with significant potential. His journey so far is a testament to his passion for the sport and his willingness to embrace both the triumphs and trials that come with high-level competition. As he continues to train, compete, and chase his goals, Ryder’s story promises to inspire fellow students, athletes, and the broader cycling community alike.

Brett Torstonson

Head of Senior School

Year 9’s Commando Games

What better way to wrap up Term 2 than by diving headfirst into mud, mayhem and muscle? Our fearless Year 9s took on the Commando Games - a wild adventure packed with obstacle challenges that tested their strength, teamwork and determination.

Soaked, muddy, and totally unstoppable, they tackled each twist and turn with fierce determination and plenty of laughs. An unforgettable day of cold toes, muddy clothes and unstoppable spirit!

Year 12 Formal

Last Saturday, our Year 12 students took a well-deserved break from their studies, joining House mentors and College Leadership for a night of celebration and connection. Dressed to impress, everyone looked stunning in their formal wear.

The evening provided a chance to relax, have fun and enjoy time together before the final push toward exams and the end of their school journey.

Thank you to Sharon Paterson for organising the event, and to all the leadership team who attended.

Year 10 Holocaust Museum Visit

On Wednesday 30 July, our Year 10 students went on an excursion to the Holocaust Museum. We were led in small groups through the museum, with a focus on the phrase ‘everyone had a name’. Looking at photos of people who had lost their lives due to the atrocities of the holocaust was a confronting experience, and one that I will never forget. After our tours, we were led into a room where we closely analysed and handled artefacts. Shortly after, all groups came together to hear from and interview Holocaust survivor, John Lamovie. As the last generation to ever speak to a holocaust survivor, it was an extremely personal and special experience. This immersive day allowed us all to gain a newfound understanding of what happened during the Holocaust.

Mairaed Carlin

Year 10 Teacher