Once every four years, a sporting event like no other takes place.
And while the Olympic Games might come to mind, this is very different, this is the Rat’lympics.
It’s not a competition for rodents, but rather so-called "human rats" that make up Rat Patrol Oz — Canberra’s self-titled "freak bike community".
"It’s a celebration of bike culture in the national capital," founding member Dan Watters said.
"Bike culture tends to evolve in cities where it is good for riding and Canberra is a great place for riding." Dan Watters testing out his "freak bike" with his nephew ahead of the Rat’lympics. (ABC News: Monte Bovill) The group has just one entry requirement for new members: you have to build your bike from scratch, often by using discarded bikes and parts.
"I just love that you take something that was once junk and turn it in to something that brings yourself and other people lots of joy," Mr Watters said.
"There is not much conventional about any of the rat bikes, they are all unique and it’s a reflection of people’s personality and identity." Events in the Rat’lympics include the ‘wall of death’, bike soccer and bike jousting, (ABC News: Monte Bovill) Rat Patrol is a global movement which began in the United States, and Canberra was home to Australia’s only chapter until recently, when a new chapter was started in Newcastle.The Rat’lympics have been held every four years in the capital since 2004.Events include bike frame tossing, the ‘wall of death’ and bike soccer.Medals […]
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