Tenth Ride is the Charm
Roxanne first rode in the Murray to Moyne Cycle Relay for the Children's Cancer Foundation in 2008 and next year she’ll hopefully participate in the fundraising cycle relay for the tenth time.
“The Murray to Moyne is always an awesome weekend,” said Roxanne.
“The team are from all walks of life and are there for their own reasons. But we are all there to support the same cause, which is unique in itself."
A mother of two, as well as of one dog, one turtle and two chickens, Roxanne has worked as a pharmacist at The Royal Children’s Hospital for over 18 years.
“Mary McGowan from the Children’s Cancer Centre at The Royal Children's Hospital knew I cycled to work and asked me to join the team,” said Roxanne.
“I really didn’t have any concept of what was involved, but it exceeded all expectations. The cycling is fantastic (weather dependent), especially at night, there is nothing like it. I’m a commuter cyclist, not an event cyclist, but I’ve been back every year since.”
“Thankfully I have no personal connection to the cause, but I have formed many connections with patients, families and staff over the years.”
In 2013 and 2015, Roxanne was pregnant and participated as a member of the support crew.
“The support crew work so hard and the concentration required for the tasks is quite exhausting. It is easier riding!” said Roxanne.
Over the past nine years, Roxanne has made many friends with new and returning team members alike.
“There have been years where, sadly, we remember team members who are no longer with us, but we’ve also had years where cancer survivors hopped on their bikes and smashed it,” said Roxanne.
“We all support each other and it really feels like we have achieved something at the end of the ride, both personally and for the cause.”
“It's a heart-warming weekend that brings together a diverse group of people, focused on one goal – something I could never have imagined when I said 'sure why not' almost 10 years ago,” said Roxanne.
The greatest distance Roxanne has ever cycled over the course of the weekend is 296 km and she has a few tips for novice cyclists.
“Train, train, train! The fitter you are, the better cyclist you are and the more fun it is. It is important to practice riding in a group. It is quite different to solo riding. You would need to be able to ride a solid 30km to participate, but you can always sit out a leg if you aren't up for it," said Roxanne.
Has Roxanne inspired you to join our Murray to Moyne team? Contact us to find out more.
Read more stories from 'Behind the Spokes with the Cytotoxic Cyclists.'
