By JUSTIN FLYNN
JEFF Shiels will don the lycra for the Wally Wheelers in the annual MS Melbourne Cycle on Sunday.
The Ocean Grover is riding for a cause – good mate David Muller, who has multiple sclerosis – for the playfully named Wallington-based team.
The event is in its 10th year in support of MS, which is the most common neurological disease in young adults, typically affecting people between the ages of 20 and 40, with three-quarters of those affected being female.
This is Jeff’s third crack at the ride, which bills itself as a fun family event. “The idea of the ride is a fun family event, not a race,” Jeff said.
“The event has changed over time. Last year they had it in April and we absolutely froze so they moved it forward.”
The Wally Wheelers team will be kitted out in specially made shirts from White Cross Independent Lifestyle Solutions.
In his first year Jeff raised around $300 and last year he upped it to $700. So far this time around he is sitting at around $1000. The ride winds its way over the West Gate Bridge and around Flemington Racecourse.
“I get to enjoy a good ride and get to go over the West Gate and test out the legs on the upward and cruise on the downward,” he said.
“It’s not only a good ride, but a good location.”
Local David Muller, a keen cyclist himself, won’t be able to compete in the event due to his MS and will be there to cheer on the Wally Wheelers.
His 70-year-old uncle is coming all the way from Canada to take part.
“He’s one of those people who has it (MS), but doesn’t let anyone know about it and just gets on with life,” Jeff said.
“It’s great that we can do a joyride and support a great cause and work towards a solution for it.”
Jeff has been training for the event by competing in the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and did a 50km round-trip to Torquay last weekend. “Each year we are amazed at how much generosity people have,” he said.
To donate to Jeff’s cause, go to www.msmelbournecycle.org.au/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&ID=1171
