Everyone, meet Bob Staddon.
A C6 quadriplegic, Australian Navy veteran, and Australian Paralympian. Bob’s journey is one defined by resilience, curiosity, and a deep love of movement. After a waterslide accident in 1980, Bob refused to slow down. Just four years later, he represented Australia at the 1984 Paralympics, winning three bronze medals in swimming.
Over the years, Bob’s passion for sport has evolved, from swimming, to scuba diving, and more recently, to handcycling. Nowadays, he’s a proud and much-loved part of the Mudgee Classic, rolling into events alongside Team Sharkskin, complete with their now-iconic orange mohawks.
We caught up with Bob to hear more about his story, his team, and what keeps him coming back to Mudgee.
Can you tell us a little about yourself and how cycling became part of your life?
Up until a couple of years ago my main sports had been water based i.e. swimming, boating and scuba diving however about 4 years ago I was introduced to handcycling since diving became more difficult as a result of shoulder injuries.
Can you share your journey with hand-cycling and what it has meant for you?
I found cycling actually improved my shoulders and I became a passionate cyclist as it provided great pain relief as well as enjoyment and challenge. I not only cycle locally around Lake Macquarie and on the Fernleigh Track but also in Sydney on the fire trails. I began looking at events and trails further afield including the Mudgee Classic (in which a friend had previously completed). It must be said that I have a great group of supportive friends who ride with me as well.
How did you first get involved with the Mudgee Classic?
One of my close friends Kath, who was a retired police officer who suffered significant PTSD also began riding with me as it also helped her cope with her PTSD physically and mentally. We spent many hours planning for the Mudgee Classic in 2025 – accommodation, logistics, meals, the actual rides etc – to the extent that Kath had her own ring tone on my phone and my wife would jokingly refer to Kath as my “Bike Wife”.
You’re part of Team Sharkskin, can you tell us the story behind the team and its members? And we have to ask… what’s the story behind the iconic orange Mohawks?
Sadly, Kath who was only in her mid 50’s passed away suddenly and unexpectedly only three months prior to the event. As Kath was also relatively new to cycling she had the occasional mishap and started being referred to as “Crash” as in Crash Bandicoot. We decided to mimic the character and put the bright orange mohawks on our helmets, as well as having her name on our sleeves. As she was already registered for the Mudgee Classic I carried her rego plate on my bike as well as my own. Sharkskin began as a group of scuba diving friends who also enjoyed bike riding (with some more experienced than others). Since then, the team has expanded, we currently have two of us in a handcycle and we have 9 people registered for 2026 Mudgee Classic! As for the name, it comes from a local manufacturer of garments that protect people from the elements whilst undertaking water and outdoor activities. They generously sponsor me as well as the team of people I ride with.
What are your plans for the 2026 Mudgee Classic? What keeps you coming back to Cycling Classics events?
In 2026, I’m planning to make a full weekend of it by riding Dirty Mudgee on Saturday and then taking on the 65km road ride on Sunday. The Mudgee Classic is an extremely well-run ride in a beautiful location. The volunteers and organisers were exceptionally helpful particularly with a few concerns I had early on due to my handcycle.
What does training look like for you in the lead-up to an event like Mudgee? How do you manage the tougher days?
In terms of training for Mudgee I am trying to ride up to 200kms per week, with the average ride being a distance of around 40kms. When days are tough I don’t tend to dwell on it, instead I become more determined to get in and have a go. If you tell me I cannot do something I will show you that I can (walking aside!).
And lastly Bob, what would you say to those considering taking on a Classics event?
I would say absolutely do it! It is one of the best things I have ever done.
Bob’s story is a powerful reminder of what cycling is really about: showing up, riding together, and finding meaning in every kilometre. Registrations for the 2026 Mudgee Classic are now open. Choose your ride, rally your crew, and be part of a weekend that’s about far more than just the distance. We can’t wait to welcome you to Mudgee on 2–3 May 2026.