Grant Nichol to complete 1600km bike ride, in bid to raise $100,000 for charity!

Grant Nichol, Chief Wholesale Trading Officer of Melbourne Market’s ‘Flavorite’ and Fresh State Board member, is hoping to raise $100,000 for charity, in a 1600km bike ride from Alice Springs to Darwin, setting off on 22nd April 2023. Riding 100km per day, with long time sky diving friend, Rick, Grant will saddle up for approximately 16 days, in a bid to raise much needed awareness and funds for The Pat Cronin Foundation.

The Pat Cronin Foundations aims to end the “senseless social violence’ that can lead to onepunch attacks, by working with schools, clubs, and community groups across Victoria, to raise awareness amongst school aged children and young adults of the dangers surrounding the ‘Coward Punch’. The Cronin Foundation’s ‘Be Wise’ program, is a valuable resource, providing young Australians with the skills and knowledge to identify and prevent violence.

The Pat Cronin Foundation was established following the passing of 19-year-old Pat Cronin, on 16th April 2016, after he succumbed to a one-punch attack. Founded by his parents, Matt and Robyn Cronin, the foundation is partnered by organisations such as Barry Plant and the Victoria Government.

Grant has chosen to cycle on behalf of the Pat Cronin Foundation as he has a personal connection to the Cronin family.

“My eldest son, Lachlan, girlfriend’s family, is very close with the Cronin family,” Grant said.

Following in the footsteps of his father, who spent his entire career in the Melbourne Market, Grant has been working in the market since the age of 16.

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease himself in 2020, cycling was recommended to Grant by Rick, with research suggesting cycling can improve symptoms.

“He thought the Pat Cronin Foundation was a good motivator to get me riding,”

His idea gave me an opportunity to reflect on my capacity to do something I can do now that may become challenging in years to come.

“It has given me the opportunity to reflect on my health.” www.ride2bewise.com.au

In preparation for the ride, Grant began vigorous training in August 2022, cycling 200km per week.

Rick is an experienced long-distance cyclist, having completed rides from Melbourne to Canberra, Melbourne to Sydney, Melbourne to Adelaide, Adelaide to Alice Springs and extensive rides through Europe and Asia.

Those who know Grant well enough, know that he has been an avid sky diver for 35 years, completing 6000 jumps and also competing in world championships and involved in world records, and he sees this bike ride as his biggest challenge yet.

During the ride, sponsors will spend a day matching every dollar donated with a further dollar, and those who donate will be able to follow coverage of the ride.

To support Grant and Rick in their ride and assist in raising much needed funds and awareness for the Pat Cronin Foundation, please scan the below QR Code.