![CEO of WA Primary Health Alliance, Learne Durrington, would most like to ride with Anna Meares or Cadel Evans. "Both ...](http://web.archive.org./web/20170706124902/http://www.afr.com/content/dam/images/g/x/0/f/3/y/image.related.afrWideArticleLead.940x529.gx0f02.png/1499041032402.jpg)
Two of her three bikes are stylish enough to adorn her lounge room. WA Primary Health Alliance CEO Learne Durrington answers our Time Out Q&A.;
First memory of riding a bike
When I was 10, I was given an emerald-green bike with a basket on the front for Christmas. I learnt to ride on that bike and on my first downhill I got up a bit of speed and ended up with quite a few grazes. This experience did not hold me in good stead for my future riding.
How many bikes and how do you know when you have too many?
I have three bikes, two of which are now pieces of art in my lounge room – a Japanese vintage red postman's bike and one that looks like the sort Audrey Hepburn used to ride, which oozes style. My third bike is my gorgeous Specialized Amira that has a workout four times a week.
Dream bike and equipment
My dream bike is one that fits me well because I am not the tallest person in the world. I do like Italian-built bikes and components, which, to me, are a bit special.
Tips for cyclists wanting to be better riders
It's all about the kilometres, the more you pedal the stronger you get. Most of all, enjoy it and take tips from those with many more years' experience on the road. Always hydrate well, carry the right food and enjoy the coffee afterwards.
Hills or the flat
Hills, because what goes up must come down.
Love most about cycling
Being outdoors and being focused on the present, which is a great balance given the work I do. It is also an opportunity to share time with my friends and teammates.
Dislike about cycling
When the weather is wet and windy and I fear I am going to be blown off my bike. There's just no fun in getting soaked – when it's that wet, your shoes fill up with water, and you still have to clean your bike when you get home, let alone get warm and dry.
Most like to go on a long ride with
Anna Meares or Cadel Evans – both remarkable Australian riders who have taught many of us much about perseverance, tenacity and commitment to achieving goals. They both appear to be quite humble and natural leaders.
Do you think you will ever be too old to ride?
No. You've got to keep on riding and remember that age is just a state of mind. I'm the oldest woman in my training peloton at the moment – they never let me play the old lady card.
Favourite refuel station
Bossman in Mount Lawley has the best coffee in Perth. My ritual is to finish rides with a coffee there.
Favourite piece of cycling gear
A Rapha jersey in a Liberty print with matching cap – great fabric and it feels fabulous on.
Favourite ride
In Australia, the Adelaide Hills; overseas, France and Spain.
Dream bike holiday
I've already experienced a couple of dream bike holidays and my next one will be in Italy with friends: hard riding followed by good food and wine.
If you take long rides at the weekend, how does your partner feel about it?
When she's not recovering from a fall, she's usually riding with me.
Crashes? Catastrophes?
My catastrophes have been my partner crashing into me twice. The first left me unconscious and the second time my bike frame was cracked. I feel much safer on the road without her … nearby.
Ever felt scared on a bike?
Yes, generally with riders around me who are unsafe, or who are coming down a descent with a crosswind.
lifeandleisure@afr.com.au
AFR Contributor