A LOCAL cyclist has raised more than $2500 for the Cancer Council as he attempts to ride 1000km this month.
Berri man Greg Reeks is taking part in Cancer Council’s January Distance Challenge as part of its Ride for a Reason campaign, raising vital funds for cancer treatment and research.
Mr Reeks, who has participated in the campaign for several years as part of the Berri Bike Boys team, said this year’s ride had changed due to the impacts of COVID-19.
“It’s all a bit different this year because of COVID and the cancellation of the Tour Down Under and the Challenge Tour that we would normally take part in,” he said.
“Most of us would tie that into the Cancer Council’s Ride for a Reason initiative and raise money, but the Cancer Council have decided to raise money through a distance challenge instead.
“I set myself a goal of riding 1000km and I think I’m at almost 500km and I’ve raised over $2500 so far.
“I started with a goal of $1000, but I’ve just bumped that up to $3000, so if I can make that it would be good.”
Mr Reeks has currently raised the fourth highest amount of all participants statewide, while fellow Berri resident Graham Butt also in the top 10 having raised over $1100 so far.
“Unfortunately, the Berri Bike Boys aren’t involved this year after doing it for about 10 years… but hopefully they will throw some money my way,” Mr Reeks said.
“Cancer has affected so many people in my life so I can see the benefits of trying to support the Cancer Council and helping them to support people from the country when they go down and get their treatment.
“There are amazing stats on cancer now and how many people are impacted and it’s pretty daunting to think that it is almost a matter of ‘when not if’.
“If they can learn more about it and give people a few more years, it is all worth it.”
A regular cyclist, Mr Reeks said he had to double the amount of riding he would normally do to reach his goal.
“I’ve been doing a lot of rides by myself and it has been a bit windy, and I’m essentially having to be out on the bike for two hours a day for the entire month, so it is a bit of a commitment,” he said.
“It is a good time for thinking and I try to think about my good mates who have passed on because of this disease.
“A few of the other Berri guys have said they will do some rides with me though, which is great.
“I’ll keep taking part in Ride for a Reason for as long as my body lets me.”
To donate to Mr Reeks or Graham Butt, or to register for the January Distance Challenge, visit www.rideforareason.com.au.