THROUGH torrential rain and fierce winds, cyclists from across the state have battled through harsh conditions this week to raise funds for country cancer patients.
The team of 51 Mercer SuperCycle riders on Wednesday made their way to the Blue Lake city as part of their 1000km journey from Melbourne to Adelaide.
Raising funds to build family style homes for patients in Adelaide as part of the Under Our Roof project, the team has already reached $320,000 with a goal of $450,000.
Departing Melbourne on Sunday, the riders travelled through Geelong, Apollo Bay and Port Fairy before stopping in Mount Gambier for a well-deserved break.
“The ride has been very challenging, the first day it was pouring with rain and horrendously windy,” rider Chris Williams said.
“It was a very long day and tough start, but after that is has been better and we had a tail wind coming into Mount Gambier.”
Taking part for the fourth time this year, Mr Williams said he has become connected to the cause that helps country people across the state.
“The first year I rode, my good friend’s mother died from cancer,” he said.
“They were from the west coast and had struggled because they had to fly across for treatment and were staying in hotels, which is very costly.
“If we had those homes built back then it would have made the world of difference.
“They are really a home, the whole family can stay there and life can be a little more normal.”
Spreading the word about the facilities currently offered in the state’s capital, Mercer SuperCycle director Dawn Garrett said it was important people were aware of their options while receiving treatment.
“While in Mount Gambier, we met with the local cancer support groups to discuss the homes in Adelaide and hope to get on board a bit more with them when we come through next time,” she said.
“Wherever we go we try to connect with the community, providing more opportunities for people to receive help.
“We also want to give the riders a unique experience where they are engaged with the communities because they put so much into this event.”
The team is due back in Adelaide tomorrow with a final stretch of 187km to complete from Meningie.
Visit www.supercycle.org.au to donate to the cause.
