Angles (Craig Van Der Valk) – since 2003
Nick origin: Legend has it that the acuteness of the ‘angle’ at which Craig sits on a bike is directly proportionate to the level of his effort (i.e. how much he’s under the pump, how hard the hammer is down, how much he’s chewing on the bar tape, etc…).
What other 6am-ers may say about Angles: Angles is a completely personable guy who is a friend to all. His quiet and polite nature defies his skill, agression and speed on a mountain bike. His blue head-scalves are trademark and he’s 6am-er through and through. Angles is one of the longest serving 6am-er members and is wholly responsible for introducing the fine are of mountain biking to many of the roadies of the group.
Personal:
- Age/DOB: 37 and 22/09/1973
- Height/Weight: 172cm (5’8″) and 72kgs
- Occupation: Database Analyst
- Marrital status: TBA
- Kids: Expecting in January 2012
- Favourite quote/life moto: On the bike there’s no faking it.
Cycling:
- Joined 6am-ers in: 2003/4
- Was introduced to the 6am-ers by: Kevin Murphy
- Cycling club: Hawthorn Cycling Club
- Current bike: Colnago Active (road), Yeti ASR (MTB)
- Why I ride: I like introducing others to my addiction.
- Most significant cycling achievement: Finishing 2006 Melbourne To Warnambool (road), Finishing top 10 at Bike Buller 2009 (MTB)
- Podium race results: Meh – couple of 3rd’s in B at the WFB, 1st Gisbourne South (Northern Combine) in C, 1st Avonsleigh Handicap (BBN). Some firsts at Dirt Crits C-grade.
- Major goal for the coming year: Be a dad! Oh… and keep riding!
- Favourite ride (non 6am-er route): Wombat Track – mountain biking heaven!
- Favourite ride (6am-er route): Probably the 3 Uglies. Anywhere that includes a stop at the Emerald Bakery. Hurtbox is very special too!
- Favourite cycling event: Kew Crits – because of the team racing! Coleraine Tour (my first tour) also rates a mention.
