WARRNAMBOOL’S Kieran Donlon has completed a 24-hour ride around Melbourne’s Albert Park Lake to raise money and awareness of Parkinson’s disease.
His wife Julie has had the condition for 17 years.
Mr Donlon was joined by friend Barry Warren, riders from Warrnambool’s Latte cycling group and family and friends in his latest fund-raiser around the 5.28-kilometre circuit.
When contacted mid-afternoon yesterday, Mr Donlon was battling his way to the finish line after starting at 4pm on Saturday.
“I’ve not idea how many laps I’ve done but it’s been a lot,” the tired rider said.
“I’ve had great support from people in both Melbourne and back home in Warrnambool.
“I don’t know how much I’ll raise but it’s all going to a very good cause.”
Mr Donlon said it was very cool about daybreak in Melbourne yesterday, but got quite warm in the afternoon.
“It’s got quite hot scooting around,” he said.
“I’ve got a head wind half the way and a tail wind the rest of the way. I haven’t struck any hurdles other than it being cold in the morning.
“It’s gone as well as it could have and I’d just like to thank everyone who has supported me.”
Money raised will benefit the Florey Neuroscience Institute, which is researching how stem cells can be used to treat people with Parkinson’s.
athomson@standard.fairfax.com.au
