75km Adelaide to Willunga, via Flinders University

The Ride launched off to a huge start today. We started out at the city campus of Flinders University for a coffee and some press photos. Two great mates of mine escorted Zak and I up to the main campus of Flinders in Bedford park, where we chilled out for an hour in dappled sunlight beneath the vines at the Blue Duck Café. Cheers Ben and Chris!

We waited patiently for midday to arrive so I could finally give some great people the thanks that they deserve for all of the help they gave me during my time at Flinders. MACO and the Alumni Relations team generously put on a little lunch gathering at my request.

Yet, the thanks weren’t limited to Peter Gill and the MACO team (Chris, Charles, Timea, and Tyson, you guys especially), but to people who had significantly helped me throughout my Medical Science degree. Whether it was bringing me up to date with the many crucial study skills that I missed during my initial high schooling; or offering me amazing opportunities to Mentor and be an Ambassador for the University; or spending additional hours teaching me new concepts and lab skills; or helping me complete my degree after my accident; or just giving me a fair go (even though I could be a pain in the backside). To all of those people today, without you I would never have made it in University, and would never have fulfilled my dream of geting into the DVM to become a vet. THANKS!

After the gathering, and a few words of thanks (particularly to my amazing wife, Jean) Zak and I hit the road and ended up covering over 75km to Willunga. We did well, and while I’m certainly not as fit as I was 6 weeks ago (Total gluttony with French food and Dutch beer will do that…), the kilometres fell away. I arrived ravenous, knackered, and with a numb face from all of the smiling. Overall, it was a great day.

Lastly (but not least!)… Mum and Dad, you are amazing, compassionate, and most of all, optimistic and loving people who NEVER fail to have a laugh and bring a smile to my face. From day one you have supported me. From me coming home smiling and all covered in mud from Myponga Primary; to seeing me being bullied in high school and feeling powerless (hugs, Playstaion, manly pep talks, and Judo really helped!); to standing with me as I got married, and eventually graduated from Uni. You are both been pillars in my life. Through it all you have been the best family I could ask for, and you have never let me down. I love you guys! (Naaaaaaw!)