IT IS the bike ride of a lifetime.
Malcolm Leslie, Johnathan Drury and Johnathan’s twin brother Gavin left Fremantle yesterday to begin a 4200km ride across the country to raise money for homelessness.
Starting at Bathers Beach, the trio will follow the cyclists’ tradition by dipping their back wheels in the Indian Ocean and their front wheel in the Pacific at Tathra, on the NSW south coast, where the ride ends.
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READ NOWMr Leslie said he has dreamt of cycling across Australia since he pedalled around Europe more than 30 years ago.
“I’ve dreamed of riding across Australia for years but I never thought it would happen,” he said.
“I’ve always wanted to get a feel for the size of our country in a way you can’t get in a plane or a car.
“I’ve always loved a challenge and I don’t mind my own company, but I wanted to use the experience to help people too.”
Teammate Johnathan Drury said the cross-Nullarbor adventure combined two of Malcolm’s passions – riding and giving something back to the community.
“They say you can’t be a serious bike rider until you have ridden the Nullarbor, what a great way to see the country and help people who really need it,” he said.
The team has been training since January, covering at least 40km a day.
Without a support vehicle, they will carry 10-12kg of gear with them including a sleeping bag, tent and a few spares.
To donate to Breaking the Cycle and follow the ride online at www.mycause.com.au/.