By NICOLE VALICEK
LOCAL man Murray Crawford will get on his bike to give a hand to sick kids.
The Williamstown resident is training hard for a mighty challenge when he participates in the annual RMHC Ride for Sick Kids Victoria.
He will ride more than 700 kilometres in seven days around country Victoria to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities’ (RMHC) programs in Victoria.
But he is not only preparing to participate in the journey for the third time, he has also helped to train a number of participants and will play a mentor role on the ride.
Being somewhat of a professional racer himself he will be a lead support person.
“I’ve raced for 25 plus years in cycling in all different racing events from track racing to road racing,” Mr Crawford said.
He has been spending five or six hours a week training people on the basic riding structure indoors and working up to the conditions outside.
“It’s a pretty challenging event up to 800km.”
He said getting people out and doing the ride was important for each riders benefit while raising money for a wonderful cause.
“Anything to do with children touches everyone at heart,” Mr Crawford said.
“It’s being able to get out there pass on some experience and help people achieve a goal, to complete the course, and at the end of day advantage raise money for a great charity.”
Michael said he will form part of a team with 40 participants.
He said raising money on the ride affects him personally, with a niece and nephew spending time at the McDonald’s House, and his nine-year-old niece recently losing her battle with a serious illness.
For more information visit www.rideforsickkids.com.au
