We're so lucky here in California. There's a century practically every week and about 14 double centuries to choose from as well as other epic crazy rides.

I did my first century as a fundraiser in 2001 and since then I have done countless centuries and double metrics, 7 double centuries, Death Rides, brevets, etc. I think a lot of people are like that - they get into it and just become consumed with it. And even better, DH and I were pretty new to the area when we started riding and didn't know a ton of people and we've made a lot of great friends - and of course the TE friends as well.

I would imagine Australia would be receptive to this sort of thing - I have a vision of Aussies being outdoorsy, fit, etc., so I don't know why it hasn't picked up over there.