Cambodia Gutsy Challenge

I'm going to be doing some shameless promoting during Bowel Cancer Awareness Week.

This is my first proper blog post of this nature (not including the odd facebook share) and there will be more, so I want to add a sort of disclaimer:

You're not obliged in any way to take part in any stuff I promote. Please don't feel pressured. Please don't feel bad if you can't/won't get involved. The last thing I want to do is make anyone feel like that. My intention is to spread the word about stuff like this, I'd be crazy not to, but I have no expectations of anyone.

What I hope is you enjoy reading about this and other causes I promote, just as I hope you enjoy reading any of my blog - I feel this is a legitimate part of my cancer experience, and I'm taking the time to write a 'real post' rather than just hitting 'share' on facebook.

The GI Cancer Institute are holding an incredible fundraiser later this year.

This October, participants will cycle 360km through Cambodia. That's pretty epic. I imagine it would be challenging, rewarding and I know it will raise a lot of money towards researching GI cancers.

In the past I have to admit being a little confused by expensive sponsored events, but they raise a lot of money while providing a very meaningful experience for the participants. I've sponsored many walks and runs and similar events in the past, and think they are a fantastic way to raise money. 

I've come to realise that this is not 'getting a holiday sponsored' but a kind of step up or 'raising the stakes' from smaller (but still very meaningful) events. I actually rang up Anne who is coordinating this and asked her why is this different to me saying "I'm off to Melbourne for the weekend - who wants to give money to charity on my behalf". She explained it to me much better than I have here!

Obviously this kind of event is not for everyone - not for many people at all actually. But it could be a really great experience and rewarding opportunity for some. And there are lots of ways to get involved without actually going to Cambodia, such as sharing it to raise awareness, or sponsoring participants. 

I've copied and pasted this info directly from their website:

Dates: 15 – 24 October 2016

Registration fee: $700 (non-refundable)

Fundraising target: $3,500 (excludes travel)

Travel costs: $3,000 including taxes 

Trip duration: 10 days

Challenge duration: 7 days

Accommodation: Twin-share in 3 star hotels 

Minimum age: 18

Here is a link to their information page if you'd like to know more.

http://www.gutsychallenge.com/challenge-type/biking/

Or you can email/message me with any questions.

Or you can Contact Anne on 02 8036 5220 or anne@gicancer.org.au