For more than a decade, the strength of cycling in Alice Springs has been shaped by a dedicated volunteer coach by the name of Reg Hatch.
Since 2010, Reg has played a central role in developing road and track riders at the Alice Springs Cycling Club, bringing his coaching experience from other Olympic sports to the local cycling community.
Reg has previously coached elite-level kayaking, canoeing and water polo and was involved in four Olympic Games. But, for the past 15 years, he has been the unwavering cornerstone of development for Alice Springs cyclists of all ages.
Reg travels to numerous national events to guide riders.
Each week, the 77 year-old runs track, road and strength sessions for junior and senior riders based at the Alice Springs Velodrome.
Beyond the training schedule, he is a familiar face at race meets, regularly supporting the junior squad across local road races and track seasons.
His impact extends well beyond Alice Springs, having helped guide young riders onto the national stage, organising camps and interstate trips to give developing cyclists exposure to higher levels of competition.
The Alice Springs community praises Reg for focusing not only on technique and race strategy, but also on personal growth.
Reg also teaches riders to be supportive team members.
“His coaching provides life lessons that extend beyond the velodrome, including the value of discipline, commitment and ethical decision-making,” said Alice Springs Club members Tom and RaShelle Simonson.
2025 under-23 time trial national champion Alli Anderson, who currently rides for the Liv AlUla Jayco Continental Team, is one of many riders who got their start under Reg’s guidance.
The Alice Springs Cycling Club conducts regular track sessions and holds around 24 road races a year, shining as a beacon of road cycling in one of Australia’s most remote regions.
The 'Clubs in Focus' series showcases the outstanding things that our clubs are doing for grassroots cycling and riding.
Photo Credit: Alice Springs Cycling Club