EACH year for a decade, a group of up to 25 cyclists has put itself through a gruelling 700 kilometre ride to raise money for sick kids.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
This year’s team of 23 on the Hadley Cycles Ride for Sick Kids made its weary way into Port Macquarie on Wednesday evening, about 75 minutes late, after being pounded with rain on the 159km leg south from Coffs Harbour.
“The rain was hideous from Urunga to Macksville,” said lead rider Nathan Chiswell.
“We had to dodge traffic on the Pacific Highway as well.”
Ride organiser and chief executive of Ronald McDonald House Newcastle Ross Bingham said it is a big commitment from those on the ride.
“They are mostly McDonald’s licensees and sponsors who donate $10,000 for two riders to join,” Mr Bingham said.
“Then there are our everyday heroes who set up their fundraising via the website and raise money along the way.”
The goal for this year’s effort is $200,000.
Mr Bingham has been on board for all ten of the rides and one cyclist, 63-year-old Bill Cox, has ridden every single kilometre since the Hadley Cycles Ride for Sick Kids began.
The team set off on the second last leg yesterday facing more rainy weather to reach Taree, where they stopped to visit Manning Valley Anglican College, and then on to Forster for a total journey of 115km.
The cyclists and their support team including lead and follow vehicles, food truck driver, gear ute and logistics manager look forward to arriving at their home base of Ronald McDonald House at Newcastle’s John Hunter Hospital.
Most of the riders take annual leave for the five day journey. The route varies slightly each year to give the sponsors a break. To donate to the Hadley Cycles Ride for Sick Kids visit www.rideforsickkids.org