Nine local riders recently completed the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, joining 160 participants for the 378km journey over three days, with the Burdekin cyclists riding as part of the Eagles team.
Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Brooke Cross, James Kennedy, Andrew Sherrington, Mark Dale, and Chris Mallon started strong on day 1, covering 112km from Townsville to Ingham. The second day, a challenging 173km ride from Ingham to Innisfail, included the Cardwell Range, the old Tully highway to Silkwood, and routes through Mena Creek and South Johnstone. The final day was a 93km stretch from Innisfail to Cairns.
Brooke Cross earned the "Queen of the Mountain" title for the Eagles by being the first female rider to conquer the Cardwell Range. Alongside Mario Romeo and James Kennedy, she led the pack consistently throughout the ride.
Now in its 24th year, the event has raised over $8 million for children's cancer research, with this year's ride contributing $303,969. The Eagles collectively raised $24,746 through various fundraising activities, including individual donations, sausage sizzles outside Harvey Norman in Ayr, a raffle, a money board, and support from Eathorne Masters via the Mooney Cup and Burdekin Rugby. The Eagles extend a heartfelt thank you to all supporters and sponsors for their generous contributions, which will go directly toward finding a cure for children's cancers.
The Eagles dedicated their journey to Michael Mooney, who passed away in April 2019 from Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. "Moon" had completed the ride six times, and the group rode in his honour.
Next year marks the 25th anniversary of the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, and many local riders have already pledged to participate again.
“Most of the local riders have already pledged to do the ride “one more time” next year, and we look forward to your continued support in 2025,” shared Eagles team member, Robbie Mitchell.
Contributed with thanks to Robbie Mitchell.
The 9 Burdekin Riders at the Cairns finish line after completing the 378km 2024 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride; Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Brooke Cross, James Kennedy, Andrew Sherrington, Mark Dale, and Chris Mallon.
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