Cyclists to ride into Mandurah as part of 700km youth mental health charity bike ride

Friday, 22 March 2024 12:24

By Monique Welhan

Nearly 150 cyclists are set to arrive in Mandurah today as part of a 700km annual charity bike ride.

The Hawaiian Ride for Youth began in Albany on Tuesday and raises money for youth mental health.

En route from Albany to Perth, the cyclists stop at 15 schools, where they meet students and share stories.

They are joined by the local Youth Focus clinicians who work within each of the schools.

The riders span multiple generations, with the eldest rider aged 83 pedalling alongside 26 young riders under 30 years old.

Riders will cycle into Mandurah over the course of Friday before staying the night and embarking on their final leg to Perth on Saturday.

Youth Focus CEO Derry Simpson said over $32 million has been raised for the organisation since the ride began in 2003.

“The Hawaiian Ride for Youth has become part of the fabric of WA. The riders travel through a number of communities from Albany to Perth and the support they receive from those communities is incredible," she said.

“At its heart, the Hawaiian Ride for Youth is about bringing community together, raising awareness about youth mental health support, and ultimately creating a Western Australia where our young people can thrive.

“The funds raised by every rider who takes part in this incredible 700km journey helps Youth Focus ensure young people have access to the support services they need, when they need them and within their own communities.

“The Hawaiian Ride for Youth makes an impact where it’s most needed – in regional areas of Western Australia. The riders help raise awareness and vital funds to deliver direct services to young people. The importance of this can’t be underestimated.”

The ride finishes at UWA's Riley Oval on Saturday, March 23.

To donate or for more information visit www.rideforyouth.com.au