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Several years ago, an idea was brainstormed to try and raise money. The crazy idea of riding a push bike from Pakenham to Sale was suggested. It was also thought that people could be encouraged to give money to see people put themselves through riding 160 Kms.
It was then thought that the money should be given to a worthy cause and the 4C’s Emergency Food Bank in Pakenham was chosen.
The idea of riding to Sale was so crazy that many people got behind it and said “I’ll do that” and the idea kept going.
In 2003, there were 15 riders who raised $1,600.
After finishing that first ride, Michael Wilson - the guy with the idea - slowly got off his bike, exhausted, pointed at it, and said "That thing's going on e-Bay". Strangely enough it didn't end up on e-Bay and he was back on it soon afterwards, with the Slog to Sale continuing.
Each year, the figures have nearly doubled, with $21,500 as the final tally being raised in 2006 with 98 riders.
In 2007 over $14,000 was initially brought in, with the final figure climbing to well over $20,000 at 99 riders.
In 2008 118 riders raised $28,000.
This year we hope to have more riders again, and collect at least $35,000 for the 4C's Emergency Food Bank.
Over the years, we've noticed that many new riders are coming for the day ride, which is wonderful. We're now attracting quite a number of riders who don't think that 160 kms is silly, but more of a morning warm up.
They keep bringing their experience and stories of other events, which encourages us to keep going organising the ride.
Each year we run the event, we learn what ran well and where we can improve for the following year, being ever so thankful of the feedback from surveys taken.
The Slog to Sale has proudly become one of the biggest fundraisers for the 4C's Food Bank; having brought in over $88,000 for it.
No-one on the Slog to Sale committee has received, or will receive any payment or donation for organising the ride, as it's done out of love for the cause and helping others.
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