The MS Gong Ride 2025

To say I was undercooked going into this ride last weekend is an understatement! I’ve tried to take part each year as an Ambassador for the event because I think it’s important to show others that just because I have Multiple Sclerosis, it doesn’t mean I can’t take part — I might just have to do it differently.

This year, after missing the past two — 2023 washed out by weather and 2024 due to illness — I was determined to make it to the start line. If you’re not familiar with it, the MS Gong Ride is a major fundraiser where riders travel from Sydney to Wollongong. There are two options: an 80km ride or a shorter 56km version. Naturally, I had to go for the longer one!

As always, my friend Clare joined me, but this year I was also lucky to have three others from my cycling club — Kay, Di, and Jen. Honestly, I would never have made it to the finish without them. They selflessly rode at my pace (which was very slow this year!) and encouraged me every step of the way.

My domestics from L to R - Clare, Di, me, Jen, Kay

It’s such a beautiful course, winding through the national park and down along the coast through small seaside towns. Hundreds of volunteers line the route, cheering riders on. But my domestiques (cycling talk for those who support a team rider) were the real heroes — riding behind me to protect my space, helping me descend safely, and lifting my spirits with constant encouragement.

Coast line view after climbing out of the national park

At one point, Clare waited at the top of a climb holding out a yellow gummy snake. It was exactly what I needed right then. I was close to calling it quits, but that little sugar hit — and her timing — got me over the hill in more ways than one.

At the finish line, all four of them rode behind me as we crossed together. It’s amazing what you can do when you have friends around you — not only on the road but in every uphill battle life throws your way. Their belief in you becomes the wind at your back.