For Singleton’s cycling team The Soft Cogs, being involved in the MS Gong Ride is about more than just cycling 90kms. For the team, it’s a way to make a difference in the lives of many.
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Over the past 11 years of involvement, The Soft Cogs have transformed from a small team to a community of people wanting to have fun and be healthy whilst making change.
The team’s enthusiasm and support for the Gong ride as well as the tireless efforts of The Soft Cogs founder, Kim Nguyen have had a huge impact on the MS community.
“The Soft Cogs first formed in 2006 and our first team was 19 riders,” Kim says.
“Now in our 11th year, we average 100 riders each year, many regular riders but also riders new to the sport and who are out to meet like-minded people.”
The MS Sydney to the Gong Ride raises funds to support Australians living with MS, a common neurological disease that interferes with nerve impulses.
The ambitious team have achieved Top Fundraising Team status year after year and raised a truly outstanding amount of over $1 million.
“This year our Platinum sponsor is Hanwha Mining Services who are new to sponsoring the Soft Cogs,” Kim says.
“Our aim in 2016 is to reach the $100,000 mark which will certainly be a tough target but we'll have a good chop at it.”
The team also have a fantastic system to support riders who are wishing to join them in the MS Gong ride, with discounted rates as well as exclusive deals with local businesses available.
“We also have a neat setup for the MS gong ride making it as easy as possible for riders making their way down to Sydney,” Kim says.
“We provide a bus from the Hunter to Sydney and a dinner for riders the night before the event.
“After the ride, there is a team marquee which is fully catered by Cordina Farms and beverages to celebrate the achievements and the bus then takes us back up to the Hunter Valley.”
Each rider participating in the event has a webpage via the MS Gong ride and riders are now taking online sponsorship, with each donation over $2 being tax deductible.
“Absolutely anyone can join the Soft Cogs and new riders are always encouraged,” Kim says.
“We are not a serious team. We focus on fun, fitness and helping others out.”
The iconic MS Gong ride will be held on Sunday November 6 and information about The Soft Cogs and how to join can be found on the website: www.softcogsinc.com
