Rotary Beats Cycle For Hope aims to encourage our community to live healthy and strong lives with a 22km cycling event from Portland to Bridgewater Bay raising funds for people living with cancer and their carers.
The event was inspired by Paul Beattie who passed away 31st Jan 2013. Pauls story is an inspiration to all.
Diagnosed in 2006, with Stage 4 Terminal Lung Cancer and told he had six months to live – and then 12 months later diagnosed with brain cancer - there was little hope!
As a 39 year old man, married, with 3 young children, all less than 5 years old, the information was devastating. Being a Chief Pilot, Paul was a non smoker and physically fit - indeed a past Australasian Kayak Champion and Internationally sports competitor from 14–28 years of age; Paul was now in the hands of the specialists and his medical team, but decided he needed to take control of his own destiny by living every hour of every day, in the present.
As a 39 year old man, married, with 3 young children, all less than 5 years old, the information was devastating. Being a Chief Pilot, Paul was a non smoker and physically fit - indeed a past Australasian Kayak Champion and Internationally sports competitor from 14–28 years of age; Paul was now in the hands of the specialists and his medical team, but decided he needed to take control of his own destiny by living every hour of every day, in the present.
So the creation of the cycling event was instigated. Starting from the Portland sporting reserve, by bicycle, out to Bridegwater Bay, where other activities, foods and drinks were planned. This is a supported event, to encourage the community, to stay fit and healthy, and get involved.
Registrations open towards the end of March each year, with all fitness grades encouraged to attend.
Funds raised support people diagnosed with cancer and their carers, with things such as food and fuel vouchers, and fitness vouchers/gym memberships. The event is also supported by local businesses, Portland Alcoa, and Pacific Hydro.
Check out the video of the 2017 event here - https://goodmanphotography.dphoto.com/album/07521o/photo/45060880
See the feature page for further information.
