October is set to be a busy month for Andrew Fuge's quadriceps, as the Hazelbrook cyclist aims to ride 500 kilometres as part of the Great Cycle Challenge Australia.
This year marks Fuge's fourth time participating in the national event, which draws attention to and raises funds for the work done by the Children's Medical Research Institute. In the eight years since the Great Cycle Challenge started, riders have raised more than $20 million.
Fuge will ride for at least 500 kilometres before the month is out, all over the Blue Mountains, and hopes to raise $2500.
"I have family and friends that have or have had cancer, so I am passionate about to trying to raise funds for research and awareness," said Fuge.
"On average a ride for me is anything between 20 kilometres and 70 kilometres. I'll reach my 500-kilometre goal easy and will continue riding to push myself as far as I can.
"I do plan to ride home at least once - work is in Penrith and I live in Hazelbrook so it's all uphill. My last ride I have planned will be Mt Victoria to Emu Plains via The Oaks Fire Trail.
"Hopefully I'll reach my fundraising goal this year, last year fell short by a little."
When riding for the Great Cycle Challenge in 2020, Fuge promised to wax his legs if he reached his fundraising target. This year he has gone further: his hair and beard are currently dyed blue. Furthermore, when he reaches $1000 he will walk laps of Hazelbrook Oval in a dinosaur costume; at $1500 he will do 50 burpees; at $2000, he will shave his head and beard; and at $2500 he will undergo a full-body wax.
"A little pain for gain as cancer is a terrible disease," he said.
To donate to Fuge's fundraising efforts visit https://greatcyclechallenge.com.au/Riders/AndrewFuge
