At Australian Cycle Tours, we love that feel-good rush of endorphins you get from being active and exploring. There's possibly only one emotion that tops it - and that's when you are active exploring while raising money for a charitable cause. As part of the World Expeditions Travel Group, we are proud of our achievements in helping underprivileged communities around the globe (view our projects here, including our latest mission to raise funds for travel industry workers in Nepal and Peru).

 

We heard about an excellent charity ride that recently took place from the Sydney Muslim Cyclist's Club. In April, they cycled 120 km from Western Sydney to Bowral, and in the process they raised over $27,000 for needy people living below the poverty line in Lebanon. Along the route they rode through gorgeous historical towns such as Picton and Mittagong, as well as climbing the challenging Razorback mountain and Catherine Hills.

 

 

We asked Malek from the club to share the group's experiences of this feat and cycling through the Southern Highlands.

 

What did the cyclists find were the highlights of the Southern Highlands?
 
The surrounding nature and less density compared to the city. The whole area feels more open and the town centre of Bowral was very welcoming.
 
Was the 120 km distance a new personal record for the SMC club cyclists? Did everyone manage with the hills? How far does your club usually ride?
 
The distance was not a record, a few years ago SMC cycled to Canberra over 2 days to raise funds for Syrian refugees with distances of 150 km and 125 km on each respective day. The hills did provide a few causalities, but the group worked together to get through. Usual club rides range from 50-80KM on the weekends.
 
Are many cyclists keen to return to the Southern Highlands for more cycling or for a holiday?
 
There are many SMC cyclists that have completed the Bowral Classic many times, and we have some members that travel to Bowral for a Sunday cycle too.

 

 

Does your cycling club have a favourite café/s?
 
We enjoy beach side cafés as the group enjoys soaking in fresh air and sun. Unfortunately, the ride to Bowral was on Easter Sunday so many cafés were closed on the way to Bowral.

 
Does your club have a favourite cycling route in Sydney?
 
This would have to be Lakemba to Cronulla/Kurnell and Cape Solander as it provides a nice flowing ride and ensures all members can attend. Also, there are great cafés along the way!!
 
What’s your ultimate cycling route in Australia and around the world?
 
Among our members there is a range of ultimate cycling routes – some love the Royal National Park, while others would love to cycle around Europe and tackle some Alps.
 
What does a food pack contain?
 
The food packs contain pantry essentials and enough food to feed a poverty-stricken family in Lebanon for a month. These items include but not limited to; rice, flour, eggs, sugar, oil, beans, grains, pasta, milk, jam and more.
 
Can people still donate?
 
We met our donation target, but there is still a need for more donations to help ease the burden of poverty. We partnered up with Sadaqcare for this charity ride and they have been fantastic. Donations can still be made and would be appreciated by all. If you'd like to donate, click here.

 

 
The SMC has been involved in raising money for Bankstown Hospital as well. Do you have any other fundraising plans for the future?
 
Yes, the Bankstown Hospital charity ride was a great initiative and was close to home, so our members were able to engage with some of the health workers that would benefit after the ride. We have also raised money for Australian farmers going through drought in 2018.
 
We are always planning fundraising rides and are currently planning a Spring fundraising ride. There is a high interest from newer members to complete another multi-day ride to Canberra. This is still in the early planning phase but will most likely be to raise funds for less fortunate countries/people.

How can people join your club? What can new members expect?

 

Based in the South Western suburbs of Punchbowl, the Sydney Muslim Cyclists Club was officially launched in January 2015 as a social club for like minded people with a passion for cycling. The club is open for all people regardless of ethnicity, colour or creed.

 

Joining the club is via an online registration via www.smcclub.com.au. Registrations are currently closed and will be open in July. We have weekend rides, Saturday and Sundays as well as mid-week evening training rides. All this is shared via a Whatsapp group and with or 80+ members there is no shortage of advice or members to ride with.

Do you have any advice for a first time cyclist?
 
Don’t push beyond your limit or try to match more seasoned riders – this will only demotivate you. Build your fitness in a controlled environment such as a cycling track (M7 cycle path is great for this or Sydney Olympic Park) before hitting the road. Choose a bike that is suited to your physique.

 

> Visit the SMC Website here.

> Visit the SMC Facebook page here.

> If you'd like to explore the Southern Highlands, take a look our new self-guided bike tour.

 

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