Bike ride goes a long way

The MSWA Albany Ride has a new challenge for brave cyclists this year — a 135km event.

The annual charity ride is back next weekend to help make a difference for people living with neurological conditions in the Great Southern.

The event aims to raise awareness and money to support people with multiple sclerosis, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, motor neurone disease, and acquired brain injury.

The new challenge should not put people off, though, with four different ride lengths to choose from including a 10km family ride.

Diagnosed with MS in 1995, Albany father-of-two Rob Cridge has been the MSWA Ride Ambassador for the past two years.

This year, he is unable to ride due to the toll MS is taking on his body, but his daughter Mackenzie, 17, will be riding for him.

“The impact of the event on the community is huge,” Mr Cridge said.

“I’ll be getting my kids involved and that’s important to help encourage the next generation to give back to the community.

“My children have always known about my MS and, together with my wife, are very supportive. They are my motivation to stay positive, active and engaged.

“I hope that with bicycles being seen by the general public all over town, knowledge and conversation on the condition will be enhanced.”

The MSWA Albany Ride starts at 6am on Saturday, March 14, at Emu Point.

Visit mswaalbanyride.org.au.