By Kelly Yates
Right: Jarrod Bailey from Narre Warren is gearing up for a 30-hour charity spin ride to raise money for kids in Casey. 49049
A NARRE Warren man will complete a long and enduring 30-hour bike ride in an effort to raise money for kids in Casey.
Jarrod Bailey is gearing up for the “Tour de Casey”, a charity spin ride at Casey ARC to help collect money for the YMCA’s youth mentoring program.
The 28-year-old will take to the bike and ride from 10am on Monday 12 July to 4pm on Tuesday 13 July.
This is the second time Mr Bailey has done a charity spin ride at Casey ARC in Narre Warren.
Last year, he helped raise more than $3000 for the Black Saturday bushfires by riding for 16 hours.
Mr Bailey has been spending lots of time on the bike in preparation for the event.
“I’ve been doing two or three spin classes every day and also some riding at home,” he said.
“I think I’ll be able to last and stay awake. My legs should be ok, but I know sitting on the bike seat for 30 hours won’t tickle.”
Mr Bailey weighed 110kg at the age of 24 and decided to turn his life around and get fit and healthy.
“Back then my lifestyle just wasn’t good. I knew my health was important and I needed to take care if it, so I got fit again,” he said.
“If I can lose 30kgs then anyone can do it.”
Since shedding the kilos, Mr Bailey has completed the Oxfam walk, a half marathon, half Iron man and other fun runs and bike rides in his quest for fitness and health.
Next month’s bike rides ride will take place in the Casey ARC foyer, with the centre remaining open over night in support of the ride.
Mr Bailey is hoping to raise $5000 for the youth mentoring program, which empowers youth in Casey to reach their potential.
The youths involved in the initiative have been identified as “at risk” and are matched with a volunteer mentor.
The mentors, who are carefully picked and go through a number of checks before they can be matched, provide support and guidance to the youths.
Members of the community are invited to support Mr Bailey in his ride by purchasing a supporter’s bike or supporting him through donations.For details about the event, call YMCA youth mentoring on 9705 5000.
