Nat Bromhead
Starlight – the Starlight Children’s Foundation – is encouraging cycling enthusiasts from all around the country to join ‘the ride that gives back’ this September, for its annual Tour de Kids 30-day virtual cycling challenge.
The challenge aims to raise over $1 million to deliver happiness to more than 25,000 sick kids across Australia.
Tour de Kids is the ride that gives back, not only to participants but to sick kids. While riders enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of being active, their fundraising efforts will support Starlight’s vital hospital programs for sick kids, including Captain Starlight and the Starlight Express Rooms.
Participants of all ages and abilities are encouraged to clock up their kilometres in any way that suits them. Whether it be on a leisurely weekend cycle, a ride to work or in a spin class, every kilometre ridden helps sick kids in need.
Lexi’s Story
For 3-year-old Lexi, who was diagnosed with a ruptured Wilm’s Tumour (kidney cancer) and has undergone 26 weeks of chemotherapy, major surgery and radiotherapy, hospital stays are particularly difficult.
Lexi struggles with painful procedures and isolation from kids her own age, and Starlight’s hospital programs have been a shining light for the whole family during her treatment, providing a safe and fun space where Lexi can be herself again.
Lexi’s Dad Evan said it wasn’t about ‘going to the hospital’, but ‘going to the Starlight Express Room’ for Lexi.
“It has become an event we can build our day around and gives us something to talk about before and afterwards,” he said.
Supported by professional Australian Triathletes Craig Alexander and Emma Jeffcoat as well as TV personality and cycling enthusiast Tristan MacManus, Tour de Kids encourages all Australians to get active for a good cause.
No Child Should Miss Out
Starlight CEO Louise Baxter said being diagnosed with a serious illness can change the course of a child’s life forever.
“But being sick shouldn’t mean missing out on the fun of childhood,” she added. “Starlight exists to brighten the lives of sick kids, turning pain and fear into fun, laughter and joy.”
“We hope the community will hop on their bicycle to improve their own health and also change a child’s life.”
Help Sick Kids & Win A BMC!
Tour de Kids fundraisers will be rewarded for their efforts with exclusive merchandise including an official Tour de Kids x Santini cycling jersey. Plus, participants who sign up before 31 August go into the draw to win a BMC URS One Gravel Bike from 99 Bikes valued at $4,999.
An exclusive fitness and fundraising app will also be available to participants for the first time, allowing them to not only keep on top of their progress but to also challenge their friends and fellow teammates.
The challenge is proudly supported by Tour de Kids partners – Santini, 99 Bikes, Zwift, Bike Chain and BBB Cycling.
Founded in 2001, Tour de Kids is Australia’s first-ever charity bike ride. Since 2019 when Starlight took Tour de Kids virtual 8,574 cyclists have raised over $3.6 million supporting more than 92,000 sick kids and their families.
Registrations are now open at tourdekids.org.au. Participants can ride the distance any time between 1 – 30 September 2023.
To get rolling simply register, start fundraising and join the ride that gives back today. To find out more, visit tourdekids.org.au/
