The Reason For The Journey
In February 1964, a remarkable young woman from Whanganui New Zealand named Colleen Redit sailed to India, following what she knew was a clear call from God. She learned the Tamil language, and after some time, settled in Chennai, where she began equipping some of the poorest young women with skills to become self-sufficient - giving them a chance of a better life.
Fast forward 60 years, and the humble work that Colleen started has now grown into what’s now known as Christian Missions Charitable Trust (CMCT). Read about Colleen and CMCT here https://christianmissionsindia.org
Among other things Colleen established a hospital in the heart of a community where accessible healthcare was (and still is) deeply needed. It’s been an incredible work, however it is limited in capacity. A Harvard study assessed the vision to expand it, and they found that a larger facility could not only improve care for the local community, but could also strengthen CMCT’s long-term sustainability.
In honour of this remarkable lady, now in her 80's from Downunder (its not polite to mention a lady's actual age), I plan to ride my motorcycle from New Zealand to the UK raising awareness and funding to help ensure Colleens legacy continues.
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The Objective
The 35000km journey is purposely ambitious, it won't be a walk in the park and not something I can do without support... equally the goal to raise $1million NZ dollars is outside my personal ability but if we can pull this off it will make a world of difference to the recipients!
How Is It Possible?
I reckon if we had 10,000 'heroes' who would persuade 9 of their friends to give just $10 each we could make this happen!
Would you commit to that?
None of the funds raised will go towards the ride, all funds will go to Bethany CMCT which is the NZ entity promoting and assisting with funding CMCT. You can give via givealittle.co.nz/cause/up-from-down-under
My Ride
I will be riding a 2003 Honda XL650V Transalp which, for those interested, is an early adventure bike. I have modified it somewhat but essentially it is low tech with no electronics, no fuel injection, just a healthy will to eat up miles...
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The Route
The route takes a general path due to several unknowns, but I'll do a lap on NZ, sail to Australia, ride to Perth, sail to Indonesia, island hop to Malaysia then I'm on land the rest of the way to Ireland. Check out the tentatively planned route map.
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I'd love to meet you and your group and tell you all about the reason for the journey, get in contact and I'll call in on my way!
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Documenting The Journey
You can follow my progress on YouTube, it wont be a big budget movie but there will be plenty of adventure for sure. Please Subscribe, Like & Share
