CYCLING FOR A CAUSE: TEAM SCHLAMMERTIME TAKE PART IN MACA RIDE 2023

Another year of the MACA Ride has drawn to a close. Months of preparation culminating in one extraordinary weekend – two days, 48 hours – where hundreds of individuals unite for a common cause: Cancer Research.

The MACA Cancer 200, Ride for Research, embarks on a 200km journey, raising essential funds for cancer research. Riders embark from Optus Stadium, making their way to Mandurah. With overnight accommodation, entertainment, and catering well taken care of. Participants repeat this challenging journey the following day, finding themselves welcomed at the finish line by friends, family, and loved ones.

This year, our team grew in numbers, with a total of 9 Schlam employees bravely taking on this challenge in support of the vital cause. First-time rider Mat reflects on the start of this incredible journey and the surge of emotions during the opening address.

“The start was somewhat overwhelming, being my first time and witnessing the remarkable number of participants in this event. The initial speeches were deeply touching, offering insight into the inception and growth of the MACA Ride,” Mat shared.

When asked about their highlights, many riders echoed a similar sentiment – the camaraderie and support shared among them during the most arduous moments.

“Having a large team this year made a significant difference; the added support made the journey more manageable for everyone,” Tom reminisced.

"While some people decide to do couch to 5km, I decided to embark on couch to 200km on a bike that I didn't know how to ride six months prior. I certainly don't think I could've crossed that finish line as well as I did, without the push I got from fellow riders, both figuratively and literally!" Kirstie said. 

Unlike last year’s event, which enjoyed relatively cool temperatures, this year Mother Nature turned up the heat, with some segments of the ride experiencing temperatures nearing 40 degrees.

“The heat posed a challenge for me this year, but the team spirit and the support from fellow riders kept my motivation alive until the very end. Plus, getting to know everyone outside of the workplace was a fantastic experience,” Colleen exclaimed.

At the close of the first day, all riders were treated to a well-deserved dinner, coupled with various presentations commemorating the occasion.

“The Saturday night presentations and speeches left a lasting impact. Witnessing the tangible difference made in people’s lives through the research conducted by the Harry Perkins Institute was nothing short of inspiring,” Tom shared.

It’s undeniable that cancer touches the lives of everyone at some point. Whether you personally battle the disease or witness a loved one confronting it, the experience is heart-breaking.

For our Schlam team, each rider completed the MACA Ride with one or more of their loved ones in mind.

“This meant a lot to me, particularly as my dad recently underwent treatment for prostate cancer. Throughout the ride, I reflected on the challenges he faced and how our efforts, along with those of others in the past, have contributed to the treatments available today,” Mat expressed.

"This event meant a great deal to me, not just because of the physical challenge but knowing that the funds raised is going towards something genuinely meaningful, as I've recently lost a loved one to cancer a couple of years ago and a best friend is going through her own battle with cancer now," Kirstie shared.

Overall incredible results have been achieved, with a remarkable $8,855,082 raised for Cancer Research. This monumental figure is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all the teams that participated over the weekend.

As a team, we take great pride in announcing that we contributed $64,379.00 to the cause. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of our riders, the generous support of our platinum sponsors, Charles Hull Contracting and SSAB, and all our other sponsors who rallied behind Team Schlammertime, as well as the immense support from our families and friends.

While the ride may have concluded for this year, our Schlam team have been bitten by the cycling bug, determined to continue cycling in anticipation of the next event.

“I started cycling to work a few days a week as part of my training for the 2023 ride and managed to cover a distance of over 1000km over seven weeks. I fully intend to keep up the commute, not only for its fitness benefits but also because I’ll be making a significant impact by reducing carbon emissions – saving 12kg of carbon each day I choose to ride. It’s a win-win!” Andrew shared.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the MACA Ride 200, the Harry Perkins Institute, and every rider who participated in this extraordinary event. As we look ahead, we are excited to participate again in 2024, with a larger team and an even more substantial donation in our sights!