AN Albion Park couple has called on Illawarra-based neighbours to harness their enthusiasm and participate in a charity horse ride in aid of cancer patients.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Ride with Pride is a fund-raising event aimed to alleviate costs, such as accommodation and transport, specifically for regional and rural cancer patients travelling long distances for their treatments.
The annual event commenced in 2012 and will take place this year from October 19-26 at Tugalong Station, Canyonleigh, in the Southern Highlands.
Riders and their horses travel from throughout NSW and interstate to take part in this ride, a joint effort between Cancer Council NSW and the Australian Trail Horse Riders Association.
It features a seven-day, fully catered adventure with riding on a scenic 5500-acre property, as well as entertainment and an auction.
Last year's event raised more than $73,000.
Albion Park couple Martin Evans, 47, and Debra Cotton, 43, participated in last year's ride and will do so again this year.
Both are members of the Horsepitality Trail Riding Club, formed primarily to manage the Ride with Pride.
"It's just meeting different people," Mr Evans said of its appeal.
"I'm in a bike club as well, but you can't really talk to people [when on a bike]. When on a horse, you're talking to people all the time.
Mr Evans said just short of 60 people took part last year.
Mr Evans said losing a stepfather and mother-in-law to cancer had also motivated him to get involved.
"It's just a fun, no pressure event and it's fairly easy-going."
Those wishing to take part or to donate can visit ridewithpride.net.au.
Registration costs apply. All funds raised go to Cancer Council NSW.