HITTING sand dunes in South Australia last week, Jackie Peacock wants to ensure she is ready for an epic race.
The Ballarat ‘bush rider’ spent three days training in Beachport, clocking up about 300 kilometres, in her count down to the gruelling Hattah Desert Race near Mildura. This is Ms Peacock’s second attempt on the demanding desert course but this time, she is thinking pink.
Ms Peacock is riding to raise money for the McGrath Foundation as she prepares for the July 3 event. She has gathered momentum since The Courier last checked in on her endeavour early in February. Setting a goal to raise as much as possible, Ms Peacock has raised more than $5000 and, determined to finish the 266km event, has been hitting the gym and training hard.
The longer she is on course, the more she can raise awareness and help the McGrath Foundation.
Ms Peacock’s mother Wendy was diagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer late last year. A McGrath Breast Care Nurse played a key support role in her recovery and treatment.
“McGrath nurses are just not widely spread enough across the country,” Ms Peacock said. “They just help people going through breast cancer so much. Once you’ve got it, that’s it...some don’t know where to turn first for help. McGrath nurses are a lot of support in helping what to do, where to go and if you do end up losing a breast, what options and the next steps are.”
Northwest Victorian Motorcycle Club, which hosts Hattah, has rallied behind Ms Peacock and organised business sponsors for each lap she completes in the dust, dirt, mud, sand and tight corners.
Ms Peacock is having a spud night send-off, a week from race day, at Goldfields Cafe and Baked Potatoes on June 26. She urged everyone to come along in a final fundraising push.
“Everyone’s been really supportive, especially towards my mum,” Ms Peacock said. “It’s not really about the result I get at the race, but more about raising funds for an important cause.”
Details: www.facebook.com/hattahforbreastcancer.
