Bicycle Network Victoria: Great Escapade New Zealand

Funds raised for the Great Escapade 2008 - $2,885.00

Merri participated in the Tour Down Under Community Challenge Tour, in Adelaide, January 2009. She is pictured wearing the Tour jersey. 

Merri's Story

Having only recently rediscovered bike riding after nearly a 40 year gap, I am consistently amazed at the exhilaration and sense of freedom it provides.

I live in the southern Flinders Ranges of South Australia and one of my recent bike adventures involved riding 45km to work. This included some initial hill climbs and then the reward of going downhill at a safe but relatively high speed.

It was then that I realized a big part of the magic of bike riding is rekindling the memories of my youth. You remember those times, when you were totally free. With a good tail wind you could go anywhere and you did.

I am pleased to say I have that feeling back and I know I will make it on the Great Escapade – 537km in 8 days.

So I ride a bike because I can. I am fit and healthy and young again, in my mind at least.

But this ride is not all about me. I ride for another reason. I have a young friend with MS, so I see this as an opportunity to do something for her and other young people with this dreadful disease.

It is frightening to learn that the incidence of MS in Australia is growing by 10 per cent each year. It is equally chilling to know it primarily attacks the young.

So it is vital that we learn more about MS and continue to support the research to find a cure.

I am in a privileged position to do this, doing something I love and enjoy and with the generosity and support of my friends, family and colleagues.

By riding for a reason, I can contribute to this great cause and hopefully make a little bit of difference.

Merri Tothill,
Wilmington South Australia