Starlight Children’s Foundation (Starlight) and cyclists across Australia will be riding the distance for sick kids this September as part of their annual Tour de Kids challenge.
From cycling pros to beginner bike riders, the 21-day challenge encourages riders of all ages and abilities to hop on a bike to give happiness to sick kids.
Raising much-need funds to support Starlight’s vital hospital services including Captain Starlight and Starlight Express Rooms, Tour de Kids invites riders of all ages, fitness levels, and from virtually any location to simply register via the Tour de Kids website, select the distance they want to cycle, choose a fundraising target and get riding!
Supported by professional Australian triathlete Emma Jeffcoat and Australian cycling pros Michael Matthews, Tiffany Cromwell and Lachlan Morton, Tour de Kids is encouraging all Australians to get involved.
Tour de Kids advocate and professional triathlete, Emma Jeffcoat said: “Starlight is a fantastic cause which I share a lifelong connection to as a child who has battled through serious illness. Having experienced Starlight’s services first-hand, I believe my story & journey has helped shape the person I am today. Taking from my personal experiences as a child, and now as a professional triathlete and a nurse, I have the ability and privilege to give back and challenge everyone to ride for Tour de Kids.”
Originating as a multi-day charity bike ride back in 2001, Tour de Kids has now expanded to offer a virtual challenge due to popular demand.
Now in its 18th year, Tour de Kids has raised more than $7 million for Starlight and helped over 192,000 sick kids in hospitals across Australia.
Starlight relies on community support to help keep its hospital services running seven days a week.
Starlight’s CEO, Louise Baxter said: “Serious illness and hospitalisation can take away the joy of childhood. At Starlight we know happiness matters to a sick child’s development and the work we do to support sick kids is only made possible through participation of the Australian public in community fundraising events like Tour de Kids.”
“Every kilometre cycled and every dollar raised helps Starlight continue to operate in children’s hospitals around the country – making a lasting difference to sick kids when they need that healthy dose of happiness.”
Fundraisers will be rewarded for their efforts with exclusive Tour de Kids branded cycling gear such as an official jersey, phone pouch, bike stickers and cosy neck warmer.
The top three fundraisers will also be rewarded with gift vouchers from Australia’s largest bicycle retailer and Tour de Kids sponsor 99Bikes.
About Starlight Starlight brightens the lives of seriously ill and hospitalised children and young people by replacing pain, fear and stress with fun, joy and laughter. The Starlight Express Room is where Captain Starlight delivers fun, joy and laughter via distractive therapies to sick kids and their families who need a break from the relentless cycle of medical treatment and procedures. As well as the Starlight Express Rooms that provide entertainment and happiness to many, Starlight also offers support for teenage patients and grants life-changing wishes.
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