Cyclists ride 500kms to raise money for sick kids in regional WA

"Keeping families close" - the simple and sole factor behind the annual Ronald McDonald House Charities WA Ride for Sick Kids.

Earlier this month, I was fortunate enough to join 32 other cyclists on the journey from Collie to Perth,  raising funds to allow regional families to remain together while their sick children receive vital medical attention in Perth.

In its 10th year, riders were set their biggest challenge ever - a four day, 510 kilometre ride - and with it, the task of bankrolling more than half a million dollars.

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With enthusiasm and spirits high on day one, torrential rain, howling winds and a first-up 125 kilometre sit in the saddle, did their best to break the peloton.

No doubt all were tested in body and mind, but no one was to be defeated.

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As the aches and pain fluctuated over the coming days, I witnessed a wonderful spirit, toughness and determination by the group to conquer the challenge.

Along the way, stories of children and their families battles were shared, some with great outcomes, others not - each sending a sharp reminder of the very cause why we were doing the ride.

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One night we were joined by Busselton teenager Ethan Lauro, who alongside his parents, stayed at the Ronald McDonald House while receiving treatment for a brain tumour.

More than a decade on, Ethan is cancer free.

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A confident, smart and ambitious young man, Ethan is old enough to join us on the ride in 2022, a special moment for all.

Across the four days friendships were formed, laughs were had and countless memories made.

Completing the ride and passing the magical $500,000 figure were achieved, and most importantly our aim of "Keeping families close."