Historical information

These four medals relate to the Melbourne to Warrnambool Cycle Race. This race was first held in 1895 and continues to the presenr day. It was originally a handicap race from Warrnambool to Melbourne but after 1938 it became a Melbourne to Warrnambool race After 1995 it became a scratch race and today the distance is shorter with the race starting from Avalon. It is the second oldest one-day cycling race in the world and the longest one-day cycling race in Australia. Four of these medals were awarded to Ron Vernon from the Footscray Club. All riders who complete the race in a given time are awarded a Time Medallion. In 1947 Ron Vernon, riding the latest Healing Championship Cycle came in 26th. In 1948, riding off the 47 minute handicap, he took 7th place. IHe also won the Colac Sprint in that race. In 1950 he took 9th place. The fourth medal is a Time Medallion awarded to a cyclist in 1960.

Significance

These medals are of considerable interest as mementoes of the Melbourne to Warrnambool Cycle Race, an important sporting event associated with Warrnambool and one that is known Australia-wide and internationally.

Physical description

.1 A round metal medal with a dark blue band around the edge, a light blue strip across the middle and a light blue tab at the bottom of the medal. The medal has gold-coloured printing and a gold image of a bicycle. A metal ring is attached at the top.
.2 a round metal medal similar in design to .1 above with light blue, dark blue and red colouring. A metal ring is attached at the top
.3 a green and gold round metal medal with a green curved strip attached to the bottom of the medal and white wings placed in the middle of the medal. The labelling is red and gold. A metal ring is attached at the top.
.4 A gold and dark blue oval-shaped metal medal. A metal ring is attached at the top.

Inscriptions & markings

.1 Melbourne to Warrnambool Road Race 165 miles Healing 1947
.2 Melbourne to Warrnambool Road Race 165 miles Healing 1948
.3 Melbourne-Warrnambool 165 miles Healing 1950
.4 Warrnambool to Melbourne Road Race Time Medallion 1960