Riding for 24 hours

On October 9th, 400 enthusiastic mountain bikers arrived at Stromlo Forest Park in Canberra for the Australian 24 Hour Mountain Bike Championships. Two fantastic ACRF supporters, Jane and Mathew Keeley, were among the riders preparing for the gruelling 24 hours of riding through the park’s terrain.

The brother and sister team were taking part in the race for the second time, choosing to raise funds for cancer research this year as part of their challenge.

Cancer research is a cause close to both their hearts, with the pair sadly losing their mother to lung cancer in 2007.

“While I sometimes feel sad when I think about her, it also gives me motivation because I know the physical and mental pain of endurance racing is nothing compared to living with cancer” said Jane recently.

Her memory spurred the twosome on for their extensive training through the cold Canberra winter, and gave them the inspiration to get through the gruelling 24 hour event.

The duo also found motivation in the generosity of their wonderfully supportive family and friends – raising over $3400! Not to mention placing third in their category!

Thanks so much Jane, Mathew and all of your supporters for your fabulous fundraising and congratulations on your phenomenal achievement in the 24 hour ride!

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