Tavis Baker aims to ride for 24 hours straight around Lake Wendouree – about 100 laps – for the Good Friday Appeal, starting today at 6pm at the Botanical Gardens entrance. 

The people of Ballarat have already thrown their support behind the father of two, raising almost $5000.

Mr Baker said the ride would not be easy, but the challenge would prompt people to donate. 

“Sleep, wind, rain and boredom are the main challenges,” he said.

“I’ve always wanted to do a charity ride for the Royal Children’s Hospital. We’ve got kids and they’re healthy, but it makes you think we’ve got it pretty easy.

“Riding for six hours – you won’t raise any money; you need to make it challenging.”

He plans to ride in four-hour blocks, stopping for five-minute breaks to rehydrate and eat. 

Mr Baker has been participating in long-distance cycling events for three years and said he was confident he would complete the feat. 

In February he cycled 1200 kilometres around Tasmania in three days with long-distance cycling club Audax. 

To donate, visit give. everydayhero.com/au/tavis