The day started off on a high note. No frost and Maccas for brekkie. Thanks very much Pete and Shaney Lewsam for shouting the crew and riders to breakfast at McDonald’s Dubbo, it tasted great and the service was fast!
The team did a great job. In particular there was a Crew Trainer called Josh. I think he may be the fastest Crew Trainer in the west! Super fast hustle and a great smile!
New to the group today were Jeffrey Ng and Frank Kohl - Boas from Coke to replace Gareth and Howard who left this morning at 5:20am for their 6:30 flight. This is the sacrifice the riders for sick kids pay if they want a lift from Wilco who has lots of stuff to organise in the mornings.
Welcome Jeffrey and Frank:
Brendan Newman also joined us as support crew, replacing Zoran who departed today to join his family and returns this Saturday in Newcastle. Brendan “Bling” Newman was introduced softly.
His diamond studded earrings drew no attention whatsoever and when I advised that that the words “ring”, “fling” and “sing” rhyme with his callsign, the group decided that if used in conjunction this may make for an interesting trip.
Brendan and I (Phil Willcockson - People Resources Consultant from McDonald’s Head Office) are now the mobile ops support Crew.
We make sure everything’s ready to go at each checkpoint, take heaps of photos and add attempted comedy to each leg to take the riders’ minds off the aching legs and soft tissue areas.
Here’s Phil on mobile ops
Ross Baines wore the yellow jersey today. Not only has he paid the accomodation bill for the entire journey for all riders, his total donation and fundraising efforts total almost $20,000 so far!!!! What an outstanding effort and his pursuit of the 980km accolade has been admirable. well done Ross!!
After just 13km the guys were put on a bus (yes pre-planned and not included in the 980km). Look at their awesome stats from 13km to 80km, nice smooth cadence.
After this the journey was very flat and nice sweeping bends until the next rest stop 36km later at Dunedoo Central School. The school welcomed the riders with applause as they lined the footpaths. They surrounded the riders once they’d hopped off their bikes in the courtyard and asked questions about the ride and the bikes. Assembly was called. Ross Bingham delivered a speech about RMHC and Lincoln Amidy spoke about bicycle safety.
The kids attended school in their favourite sports team attire and made a donation each in return for not having to wear school uniform for the day - great idea! They also held a colouring in competition and the riders judged the best entries.The school very generously raised $208 towards the fundraising goal which is very much appreciated.
After the Dunedoo Central School visit the trip was comprised of undulating, winding hills with some nice long curved downhills. It was sunny, 23 degrees celsius and 8km SE winds. The riders had an awesome day and really enjoyed the ride. They clocked 75km/h on this downhill.
Lunch involved a stopover at the Cassilis Royal Hotel. They served up a tasty pasta and salad lunch in a beautiful setting. Lunch was ready and hot, spot on time. I’ll visit there again on the way through next time. Thanks for your hospitality!
For all your favourite Ride for Sick Kids pics:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rideforsickkids
After arrival at Merriwa we checked into the El Dorando Motel. They were so well organised and noting has been too much trouble -thank you! The riders then ventured to Merriwa RSL for a few beverages and a delicious, hearty meal. Time for a rest now.
Off to Muswellbrook tomorrow!
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