RICHMOND lass Melanie Sadleir will hit the road for a second year in a row to raise money for children’s cancer in the nationwide Great Cycle Challenge this October.
Miss Sadleir will join more than 6000 participants across the country in the month long event that has entrants reach self set cycling goals to raise both money and awareness for the Children’s Medical Research Institute.
Participants can ride anywhere, anytime throughout the month of October - at the gym, on the road or trails.
Miss Sadleir set herself a goal of riding 100km and raising $500 in last year’s event, which she did with ease. This year she is going double or nothing, setting a target of 200km and $1000.
“They call it the Great Cycle Challenge so I really wanted to push myself this year,” Miss Sadleir said.
“I completed my 100km in five rides last year, so I wanted to aim higher this year both with my cycling goal and fundraising.
“I’m child care trained so I’m more than happy to support any event that raises money for sick kids.”
Miss Sadleir said cycling was one of her favourite sports, but sadly her bike was stolen while living on campus at university in 2012. That hasn’t stopped the local gym employee though, completing all her training and event riding on a second-hand, rusty mountain bike.
“I’ll need to get it serviced and get some air in the tyres before this year’s event,” Miss Sadleir laughed.
Participants in the Great Cycle Challenge will use the event’s free mobile application on GPS-enabled devices to track their daily rides throughout the month of October, with each ride beamed back to the individual’s fundraising page.
Entrants can ride any distance, anywhere, any time as they chase their goal for the month – including on an exercise bike with friends at the gym or by getting the kids involved in weekend rides for the whole family.
To support the event or to sponsor Miss Sadleir in her quest to reach 200km, visit www.greatcyclechallenge.com.au/rider/melaniesadleir.
