Ride for Country Kids veteran and all-round nice guy Daniel Gibson chats to us about why he’s pedalling 400km+ from Dubbo to Cobar this May. 

Q: Hi there, and thanks for joining us today for a Q & A Session. Let’s start with your name, and what you do.

A: Hi. My name is Daniel Gibson, and I’m a reporter and presenter at Prime7 television, based in Canberra.

Q: I’ve heard you’ll be riding as an Ambassador.

A: Yes, I was delighted to be asked. It’s not only a great event but RFW does such amazing work for country kids that you just want to help where you can. And if I can do my bit by helping spread the word and ride my bike to raise funds then I’m happy to do it.

Q: What’s your connection with Royal Far West, particularly with our iconic Ride for Country Kids event, which goes from 2-4 May, starting in Dubbo and finishing in Cobar.

A: I was asked to come along a few years ago and just loved the event and what it does for country kids, so it’s a regular on my training/event calendar now!

Q: Why are you riding?

A: I don’t think that geography should dictate the health care or learning resources that our kids can access. RFW makes sure that country kids get the help they deserve. And we see the difference they make. We meet the families, we hear their stories. I’m riding to make sure RFW can continue to help these kids. It’s just so important.

Q: How many times have you done the Ride for Country Kids?

A: This will be my third.

Q: What’s your favourite Ride memory?

A: Watching one of our team mates (whose name shall remain a secret!) pedal the rest of the stage, about 70km, with just one pedal. So that means on just one leg! That’s dedication…what a machine!

Q: What are you looking forward to the most on the Ride?

A: Seeing the kids and the communities as we roll in. It’s such a buzz.

Q: Are you an experienced rider?

A: Yes, I’ve been riding for many years. Less so in the last 12-18 months, but I’m enjoying the comeback.

Q: What are you doing to get fit for the ride?

A: Not many K’s in the legs for this one. I’ve done a couple of 100k rides before work and I’m just trying to ride as often as a I can. Hopefully the large pelotons will offer somewhere to hide! This time around I’ll be riding my Specialized Venge bike. It’s red, but it may not be faster!

Q: All funds raised for the Ride will support the developmental and mental health of children and their families in rural and remote communities. How can people sponsor you?

A: It would be great if people could help by donating through my sponsorship page.

And if you live in or are visiting Dubbo, Narromine, Warren, Nyngan or Cobar, check out where we’ll be on our website, and come on by and say hello. We’d love to see you. Check out Royal Far West’s Facebook Events page for more information!