Cyclists fuelled by fighting spirit

Tom Robinson and Shane Weatherley. Picture: Damjan Janevski

Move over Tour de France … a group of Werribee cyclists is gearing up for the ultimate charity ride.

More than 30 riders will don lycra and pedal 1120 kilometres in a bid for cancer research funds for the Tour de Fight BACC (breast and children’s cancer).

Leading the charge are Shane Weatherley and Tom Robinson, who helped organise the inaugural ride two years ago in honour of their mum and mother-in-law, Jan.

Jan battled cancer three times before she died in February 2012. Mr Weatherley’s sister, Rebecca, also died from a cancer – T-cell lymphoma – in October 1993.

Mr Weatherley said his mum and sister had been the main inspirations for the first Tour de Fight BACC, and the ride had taken on even greater meaning since.

“It’s also to try and help other people not go through what we went through,” he said.

“I always think about them, that’s for sure.”

This year’s round trip from Shepparton covers the undulating terrain of the Warby-Oven National Park and Mount Hotham.

Mr Robinson said a challenging course was selected to honour those who had fought, or were battling cancer.

The pair hope to raise $150,00.

The Tour de Fight BACC is from October 11 to 17.

Donate at www.mycause.com.au/payment/campaign/1430 or call Graeme Weatherley on 0439 004 698 about corporate sponsorships.