“I’d considered it previously but I’m not a cyclist, so I’ve always been a bit reluctant. This year, the centenary event and the big RFW staff contingent is what got me over the line,” Chris shares.
Balancing training for the Ride with professional and personal commitments is no easy feat. “Balance is a generous word,” he admits. “I’ve been riding the short distance to and from work in the potentially delusional hope that every kilometre counts, then doing longer training sessions when I can. I’m not a morning person so I’ve been making the most of daylight savings by getting out for evening rides, and I’ve dialled back on some other training in order to prioritise training for the ride.”
A unique challenge: Training with a 100-year-old bike
One unique aspect of Chris’ preparation is his decision to take on the challenge with a 100-year-old bicycle. “Turns out it’s really difficult to find a semi-functional bike that old. I’m in the process of restoring the bike, which is fun and interesting. I’m sure when I start training on it, I’ll update my opinions on what has been the most challenging part of my preparation,” he says.
Click here to read Chris’ own words and see photos of his journey with the 100-year-old bike!
Raising funds and awareness for children in rural and remote areas is a cause close to Chris’ heart. “There are so many service gaps, and such an unrelenting unmet need in rural and remote areas. Every little bit of awareness and advocacy helps,” he explains. “Because of what I assume are reasons, governments and other agencies don’t seem to invest the money necessary to address the needs of the communities we support, so it falls to the community more broadly to respond to this need.”
Although he doesn’t have personal connections to the regions being ridden through, Chris looks forward to getting out there. “Like so many RFW staff, I’ve had the great privilege of supporting a large number of children and families from Bourke, Cobar, and the region more generally, and I’m looking forward to visiting these communities in person rather than via telehealth,” he says.
Chris’ work with RFW has allowed him to witness firsthand the impact of the organisation on children and families in rural areas. “As clinicians, we often see small gains towards big goals, then say goodbye. The intention and the hope is that the families, schools, and other supports around the child will be able to continue making progress and that the progress we’ve made results in a bit of a positive feedback loop where they can build on those gains,” he shares.
“I’ve seen the most incredible strength and resilience in children and families”
While he’s had many memorable moments, Chris finds motivation in the strength and resilience of the children and families they support. “At those times I’ve seen the most incredible strength and resilience in children and families, and the most inspiring and supportive teamwork I’ve ever had the privilege of being part of. That’s worth riding for,” he says.
For anyone considering participating in next year’s Ride for Country Kids, Chris humorously advises, “do it on a modern bike.” Despite being a newcomer, he hopes his participation will inspire others to take on challenges and pursue their goals.
As he takes it one day at a time, focusing on training, fundraising, and rebuilding an old bike, Chris reflects on what he’s most looking forward to during the Ride. “There’s a lot about the event that I’m sure will be amazing, including many things that I can’t even begin to anticipate, so I just have to let it all happen,” he says.
If he could sum up his Ride for Country Kids experience in one word, it would be “Patina.”
Find out more about this year’s Ride for Country Kids here: rideforcountrykids.com.au/event/rfck/