RACV EB: So, Alisha, tell us a bit about Unity College?
Alisha: We are a Private Lutheran College situated in Murray Bridge, South Australia - home to the AIPP 24 Hour. Our 2009 Pedal Prix team saw Unity College with an involvement of about 70 students. This includes riders, pit crew and senior helpers. With a team of 4 vehicles and riders from years 6, 7, 8 & 9.

RACV EB: Cool. What's it like to have have the Pedal Prix in Murray Bridge?
Alisha: It's Great! The hype leading up to event is fairly big with the track and town being prepared for the race, it gets all the students excited and ready to go on the Saturday for the start! But also seeing all the other teams from different parts of the state and interstate is exciting as well. Hearing the stories of their team and the journey they've made to be part of the event is fantastic.

RACV EB: And how do the locals feel about it?
Alisha: The people in Murray Bridge really get behind the Pedal Prix as it is such a big event. They will come down to support the local teams and schools and they see Sturt Reserve like never before: full of action and excitement!

RACV EB: You've been over here to Maryborough before, what do you think the differences are between the AIPP and the Energy Breakthrough:
Alisha: Yes - this year will be the seventh year that a selected team will make the journey across the border to participate in the RACV Energy Breakthrough.

In racing terms, the RACV EB is not much different to the AIPP Series, although as we prepare just one vehicle instead of four it is a much smaller team. At the Energy Breakthrough, there is a bigger focus on design & construction and looking at the way human powered vehicles are beneficial in todays world.

RACV EB: Speaking of your vehicles, please tell us a little about them:
Alisha: Our vehicles are built with the help of local mechanics, input does come from the riders to help them decide what needs to be done & decide what is suitable.
If one thing had to be changed on the Unity College vehicles I think it would be to good to have a trial with a fully enclosed vehicle. Looking back quite a few years we did have an enclosed vehicle although having an open vehicle as we do now is easier on pit changes and repairing damages.

RACV EB: What do you aim for in your races ?
Alisha: As always, finishing the race is an important part of our program! Beyond finishing, we want to have a great time, learn new things & aim to work as a team to do our best and represent the school well.

RACV EB: What do you enjoy the most about Human Powered Vehicles?
Alisha: The best thing about being involved/racing HPV is that there is a great team base at Unity College, and having fun while being part of a great event.

RACV EB: Sounds like there is a lot of energy going into your campaigns. Is there anyone you'd like to thank?
Alisha: Thanks to all the sponsors throughout the year who have made the team possible.

To our mechanics who keep the bikes circulating and caterers - they make sure we're kept well fed at the event!

All parents & friends who come support and to the best team manager - nothing would have happened without the hard work she puts in!!