Urgent.News

What's breaking now, across thousands of outlets.

Health & Medicine

Grandfather and grandson pedal 5,300km from Broome to Bowral for MND

Bob Montgomery, 82, and his grandson Tom Malcolm, 18, have completed an epic cross-country cycling journey to raise money for research into motor neurone disease.

Grandfather and grandson pedal 5,300km from Broome to Bowral for MND

Bob Montgomery, an 82-year-old grandfather, and his 18-year-old grandson Tom Malcolm have just completed a remarkable 5,300-kilometre cycling journey from Broome, Western Australia to Bowral, New South Wales. The duo embarked on this arduous cycle to raise awareness and funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in honor of Bob's cousin, who suffered from the condition. MND NSW reported that the fundraising efforts raised approximately $65,000, which will be utilized for supporting services and equipment.

The cycling expedition, spanning six weeks, was not without its challenges. The pair braved harsh headwinds and traversed vast deserts as they journeyed through Western Australia, the Northern Territory, regional Queensland, and finally outback NSW. Bob Montgomery's primary motivation was his personal loss - his cousin passed away from MND when Bob was 70 years old. He described the emotional toll of cycling through the harsh winds and the gratitude he felt when reaching their destination after completing the journey.

In the end, the Montgomerys covered close to 5,300 kilometers, averaging around 160 kilometers per day. They learned valuable lessons from their experience and found strength in the local community's support. Tom Malcolm mentioned that the experience of raising funds and meeting people along the way played a significant role in keeping him motivated throughout the journey.

Both men paid tribute to MND advocate Neale Daniher, who tragically passed away shortly before their ride, and former South Sydney Rabbitohs player Jai Arrow.

Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

Read the original at abc.net.au →

More in Health & Medicine

More from Sunday 2 August →