FOUR years ago, Dawn Garner couldn’t ride a bike. At 170 kilograms, she struggled just to walk short distances.
Determined to get her life back, she was encouraged by her friend Denise to take up walking and aqua aerobics and she embarked on a fitness regime.
The Werribee resident then joined a gym and took up cycling for the first time since she was a child, with a $35 bicycle she bought on eBay.
Mrs Garner has since lost 85 kilograms — half her original body weight.
Last year, she rode more than 100 kilometres as part of the Around the Bay in a Day event. In this year’s ride on October 21, she plans to tackle the 210-kilometre course around Port Phillip Bay.
After finishing two fun runs this year, she also wants to compete in her first triathlon in January. “I’ve always been one to set lofty goals for myself. You can’t go anywhere in life if you don’t have goals.
“I used to dread walking, but these days I get off a stop early just so I can walk.”
It’s hopping on a bike which gives Mrs Garner the greatest pleasure. As well as riding into the city for work, she cycles up to 80 kilometres on weekends.
“Cycling gives me so much joy. You see a lot more than when you run.
“We leave for rides at 7am and head out along the Werribee River. We see some amazing sights and the scenery is absolutely beautiful.
“I now can’t imagine life without cycling — it would feel empty.”
For those struggling to lose weight, Mrs Garner has some simple advice.
“The thing that helped most was having Denise as a training partner.
Apart from being a social date, if I don’t turn up to the gym, I feel as though I’m letting her down.
“When you’re trying to lose weight, the biggest battle you have is the one with yourself, but you’ve got to be strong and persevere.”
Around the Bay in a Day this year features five rides, from 50 to 250km. Up to 20,000 riders are expected to take part. The event raises money for The Smith Family. More details: 8376 8888 or bicyclenetwork.com.au
