Shepparton’s Annie Clark is ticking an item off her bucket list and honouring some dear friends at the same time by taking part in the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation’s Ride to Fight Cancer.
During two years of COVID-19 restrictions, Annie lost three friends, Jamie, Shona and Berenice, and it’s in their memory she’s raising money for cancer research.
During 10 days from April 29 to May 8, Annie is challenging herself to ride 200km and has already raised $1360.
“It was a bit emotional when you realise you haven’t been able to hug people during COVID when someone passes away,” she said.
“After those two years of living differently, this is a way to say thanks – and get over a fear of lycra.”
Annie was further inspired by a letter her 14-year-old son wrote in relation to the friends they had lost and funerals they were unable to attend.
While he’s too young to officially register for the challenge, Annie’s hoping he’ll join her on some of the rides.
Most of Annie’s 20km-a-day goal will be met by her regular ride to work, with a few detours along scenic routes to help hit her target.
“I think everyone knows someone that knows someone or has family that’s had something to do with cancer, whether it’s Peter Mac or any of those institutions that do things to save our lives,” Annie said.
“There’s always something happening, if it’s not Peter Mac there’s always so many events to get involved in.”
Ride to Fight Cancer is a new virtual challenge event for the Peter Mac.
The foundation split it’s Unite to Fight Cancer combined walk and ride event into two virtual events for 2022, with a walk challenge in October.
To support Annie and donate to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation visit my.ridetofightcancer.org.au/annie-clark