By KATH GANNAWAY
A GROUP of Upper Yarra Secondary College students tested their teamwork skills last weekend during round three of the 2016 Victorian HPV (Human Powered Vehicle) Series at Casey Fields, Cranbourne, competing against more than 100 school teams.
Seven students were involved in the junior team, who were hoping to improve on their sixth place in their last meet.
Hosted by the Casey Cardinia Cycling and Human Powered Vehicle Club, the challenge tests the ingenuity, teamwork and physical fitness of the competitors, while promoting sustainable energy practices.
Student Katie said the group went well, although they were involved in an accident early in the event, which put them off the road briefly.
Fortunately, they were able to get the vehicle back on the road and finish the race, notching up some really good laps.
Unfortunately, they didn’t place, but the team was pleased with their persistence.
Initially, the HPV project was run as an elective in school hours, but now it is an extra-curricular activity, which requires commitment from students and parents because all races are held on a weekend.
The students said the vehicle had been purchased, not built, although they designed the livery and regularly maintain and improve the vehicle.
Student Ashlee Shotter said it was a great challenge.
“When I first joined the HPV team, I wasn’t sure if it was for me,” she said.
“But once I went to my first race, I knew I would continue with it because it was so fun.”
Team-mate Riley Foy agreed.
“HPV racing is a great challenge, where you have to push yourself physically and be really determined,” he said.
The next meeting is at Knox in April and the group is hoping to have a senior team compete at this event.
