In February/March 2012 I am going to cycle the length of New Zealand to raise awareness and money for mental health, namely depression. It will take a core group of riders 21 days and we will be cycling over 2300 kms. Earlier this year, Alison Blyth organised the first 'Ride Out of the Blue' and we're hoping to build on this. Despite being motivated by our nation's high suicide rates, this ride is all about celebrating life. I like the sound of that.
When I read about this on Facebook, I jumped at the chance. Sure, a large part of it was due to the fact that on I was on the cusp of turning 40, but I thought the idea of cycling NZ was inspiring. I've always had a secret ambition to walk the length of NZ, so this is kinda the same, just quicker. Those of you who know me, understand that I always have some kind of mammoth, crazy project on the go (giant water ballet anyone) and this is no exception. Right?
But when I think about the months of commitment - the thousands and thousands of kms training I'll have to do, the numb bum, the sun burn, the blisters, the chaffing, having to turn down the 4th-5th-6th beer at those summer BBQs - I know there must be some deeper reasons lurking in there.
Depression and mental health issues are close to home for all of us. Many of my friends and loved ones suffer from it, mostly in silence. Often I don't find out how blue they've been until after the fact, if at all. My dad told me the other day that my grandpa starved himself to death in a mental hospital in London. My other grandfather took his own life after years of struggling with Parkinson's. For me, there was some kind of empowerment and poignant practicality about Grandad's death - he was a farmer, he could no longer use his arm. He wouldn't have let his animals suffer like he was suffering. But when I think about Grandpa, it just makes me feel sad. I know from experience that depression can swallow people up. Turn them insular. So insular that sometimes there is no way out. So if you're not John Kirwin, how do you get people to open up? I guess this is something to mull over on my bike.
So, this amazing challenge is all about to begin. We've got our first big meeting on Monday 19th September to find out what it's all about. Come along if you want - details below. We need all sorts, not just riders - support crew, sponsors, cheerleaders, masseuses...
I've been in what I call pre-training euphoria. A potent mix of excitement, the odd RPM class and blatant denial about the huge amount of effort and carbohydrates it will require over the next 5-6 months. I haven't ridden a bike in years. But that's all about to change. Lots of things to think about and prepare. Sheesh, I don't even have any lycra.
Ride Out of the Blue Promo Video
Meeting: Ride Out of the Blue
Monday 19th September 2011,
7pm, Freemans Bay Community Centre
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