Shepparton’s Annie Clark riding 200km in 10 days for cancer research

By Anna McGuinness

Apr 29, 2022

In memory: Shepparton resident Annie Clark is riding 20km a day for 10 days for the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation's Ride to Fight Cancer challenge. Photo by Holly Daniel

Shepparton’s Annie Clark is ticking an item off her bucket list and honouring some dear friends at the same time by taking part in the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation’s Ride to Fight Cancer.

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During two years of COVID-19 restrictions, Annie lost three friends, Jamie, Shona and Berenice, and it’s in their memory she’s raising money for cancer research.

During 10 days from April 29 to May 8, Annie is challenging herself to ride 200km and has already raised $1360.

“It was a bit emotional when you realise you haven’t been able to hug people during COVID when someone passes away,” she said.

“After those two years of living differently, this is a way to say thanks – and get over a fear of lycra.”

Challenge: Annie says taking part in a challenge like this is one of her bucket-list items. Photo by Holly Daniel

Annie was further inspired by a letter her 14-year-old son wrote in relation to the friends they had lost and funerals they were unable to attend.

While he’s too young to officially register for the challenge, Annie’s hoping he’ll join her on some of the rides.

Most of Annie’s 20km-a-day goal will be met by her regular ride to work, with a few detours along scenic routes to help hit her target.

“I think everyone knows someone that knows someone or has family that’s had something to do with cancer, whether it’s Peter Mac or any of those institutions that do things to save our lives,” Annie said.