Heather’s tribute around the bay

THIS year’s Around The Bay ride will be more than just a bike ride for Rippleside resident and mother of two Heather Kelly.

Australia’s biggest one-day bike ride, Around the Bay, takes place on October 8 and will be a game-changer for riders of all ages and abilities, including first-time event cyclist Ms Kelly.

Ms Kelly is one of many riders who will take part in Around The Bay in honour of a loved one.

The Scottish-born director and co-founder of Geelong business Upstart HQ will be riding in memory of her late husband Rob, who died two years ago of leukaemia, a bone marrow failure disease.

“Rob and I used to ride with Cycling Geelong before he got ill,” Ms Kelly said.

“I went back a year ago and with the encouragement of the wonderful people I ride with, I’m taking on the challenge of Around the Bay.

“I’ve entered the 135km, which starts in Geelong, rides to Queenscliff for the ferry to Sorrento and then all the way to Melbourne.

“I’ve never done anything like this before, but Rob faced so many challenges and fought so hard to live, so it’s very important to me now to make the most of my life – that’s why I’m taking the challenge to complete the Around the Bay.”

The ride offers seven courses, from the from the Family Ride, to the 220km classic and 300km options.

Around the Bay has been run by Bicycle Network since its inception in 1993 and has become a staple of the annual riding circuit since.

The ride invites seasoned and hobby cyclists, colleagues, families, and friends to the event with over 10,000 bike riders expected to take part this year.

Riders can also raise funds for a charity of their choosing.

Ms Kelly will use her ride to raise funds for Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision charity, gathering donations for vital research and support for patients living with bone marrow failure syndromes.

“Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision is a cause which is so close to my heart,” she said.

“We need more research into bone marrow failure, better access to potentially lifesaving clinical trials regardless of which part of Australia you live and more support for those living with it now.”

“Public awareness is vital. Especially since the under diagnosis that has happened during COVID.

“These diseases can happen to any of us, regardless of age and background. Rob was a fit and active person throughout his life. I really hope this event raises awareness.”

Ms Kelly said she remembered her husband as a determined, courageous, but gentle man.

Her fundraising page can be found at fundraising.mrv.org.au/fundraisers/heatherkelly/around-the-bay