Dale’s epic ride to raise money and awareness

By SARAH MARTIN

SERIAL long-distance cyclist

Dale Tan has hit the road again, starting a 5500km ride across Australia to raise money for struggling healthcare workers.

The Cooktown nurse has been riding since he was a teenager, initially in triathlons but over the years has given up the running and swimming to focus on cycling.

He has completed 10 Cardiac Challenge rides – a 330km cycle from Cairns to Cooktown to raise money for cardiac services in the Far North – as well as numerous other long distance rides and is now tackling his second Indian Pacific Wheel Race.

“I ride for the damaged and burnt-out healthcare workers in Australia and the rest of the world,” Mr Tan said.

“These selfless people give so much; it’s not an easy job and mental health support, research and education is of paramount importance.

“Blackdog Institute is quite active in that space and I’d like to contribute just a little bit to that.”

The cyclist’s contribution will see him riding 200km a day from Fremantle in Western Australia’s south to the finish line in Sydney, a journey he hopes will take less than a month.

“Last time I did it in 29 days; this time I’m looking to do it in 25 or less,” he said.

“It’s completely unsupported, I’ll carry my camp gear on my bike and rely on food from roadhouses along the way when there’s the opportunity.”

Mr Tan said cyclists could choose how they raced, with some opting to spend each night in a motel and eat at restaurants.

“It suits every single budget; us poorer people will probably stay in a motel once a week and recharge,” he said.

“There are 27 riders registered, but usually only half the field will make it to the finish.”

The riders carry satellite trackers, with supporters able to follow their journey virtually on the IPWR website.

In preparation for the ride, Mr Tan has already clocked up thousands of kilometres in hot, humid and wet conditions to get in shape for the gruelling ride.

“For this sort of event, I plan