FATHER and son duo Snow and Pork Merrett are gearing up for their sixth consecutive Aussie Muscle Car Run on October 27.
The motoring event takes place every year in support of the Leukaemia Foundation with around $1m raised for the cause since its inception.
Event veterans Snow and Pork are two of the fundraier’s biggest supporters, even going as far as raising the highest amount in 2015 and 2017.
“In 2015 we raised around $21,000 which we thought was a pretty great effort for a team from the South East,” Pork said.
“Then last year on out final day of the run we were at about $15,000 and the leader was $10,000 ahead of us.
“By some kind of miracle Snow managed to rustle up another $14,000 in one day to bring our total to $29,500.”
Although the pair agree it is a great feeling to win the trophy for most funds raised, they believe the most important part is showing support for the charity.
“Over the years the money raised has gone towards building the Bridgestone Australia Building which is a home away from home for families battling the disease,” Snow said.
“Facilities like that are so important and people living in regional areas like the Limestone Coast are the ones who benefit from them the most.
“It’s something everyone needs to put at the forefront of their mind because you’ll never know when you need to utilise it.”
The Hatch to the Max team joined the run due to their love of cars, not having any prior contact with the disease, but since joining situations have changed.
“We have never known anyone battling leukaemia so it was not something that was really close to home for us,” Snow said.
“But since taking part we have made so many life-long friends who have battled with it and it really put things into perspective.
“You build such a bond with the mates you meet on the run so you end up just as passionate about the fight too.”
The teams taking part in the run have become like family to the Merretts, but they have also met some pretty famous faces along the way.
Some of those include Shane Jacobson, Dick Johnson, Allan Moffat and Phil Brock.
“It’s been really special to meet these guys on the run,” Snow said.
“They’re all really busy so to take time out to show their support for it is really amazing.
“Even though it’s great to meet them and hear their stories, we’re all there for one reason which is supporting the Leukaemia Foundation.”
Visit my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/hatchtothemax to donate to the Hatch to the Max team.
