Fundraising at the Heart of the Bowral Classic
The Bowral Classic has long been celebrated as one of Australia’s premier cycling events, but beyond the kilometres ridden and the climbs conquered, it is the fundraising spirit of the riders and volunteers that truly defines the event.
Each year, cyclists not only take on the challenge of the Southern Highlands’ scenic but demanding roads, they also dedicate their ride to causes close to their hearts. Riders can raise funds for the Bowral Classic’s official charity partner, Quest For Life, or nominate a charity of their choice. This year, one story in particular stands out.
Riding in Memory of Amity
For rider Jackson Rogers, the Bowral Classic is more than a cycling challenge—it is a tribute to his daughter, Amity.
“The dream to see an end to childhood cancer inspired us to ride for the Children’s Cancer Institute,” Jackson explains. “The team is made up of friends and family who wanted to continue to do something in memory of my daughter, Amity, who passed away from a brain tumour at the age of six. She always wanted to be a scientist, so we think it’s pretty fitting that we are raising money for the scientists who will ultimately find a cure for her cancer.”
Jackson and his team, Team Amity, have rallied together to raise vital funds for research into childhood cancers.
“I am so thankful that we have friends and family who continue to want to remember Amity and raise money for a worthy cause. It has helped me through some dark times. We hope that we can make it better for a family who comes after us, which is what Amity would have wanted.”
While training for the event has been “sporadic” with the team joking about their “dad bods and no time,” Jackson says the camaraderie and shared cause keep them going. His favourite Bowral Classic memories are always the moments after the ride, “reliving the highs and lows at the village at the end of the day; the back slaps and hero-talk. Such a great feeling.”
For Jackson, the Bowral Classic is a way to honour Amity’s memory and spread her message: “Be thankful and be kind.”
To donate to Jackson’s fundraising page for the Children’s Cancer Institute, click here.
For more on Amity’s story, head to the Children’s Cancer Institute website.
Volunteers at the Heart of the Community
While riders push the pedals, an army of local volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the event running smoothly. Groups such as the Rotary Club of Bowral-Mittagong play a vital role in everything from marshalling the course to serving up well-earned food at the rest stops.
Mary Ramsay from the club says the volunteers find great pride in being part of the event.
“The Rotarians who volunteer for the Bowral Classic enjoy assisting in the safe running of the event, which is incredible fun to watch, seeing all the different levels of riders that take part. The enjoyment they get out of providing BBQ food and drinks and finishing the day with a great measure of satisfaction knowing that they have been again, part of this marvellous local event.”
Funds raised by the Rotary Club’s involvement stay within the Highlands community, supporting the local hospital, schools, and youth projects.
Cycling for a Cause
With thousands of riders expected to take part, the Bowral Classic continues to grow not just as a cycling event, but as a platform for positive impact. From individual riders fundraising in memory of loved ones, to local volunteer groups raising funds for community initiatives, the event is proof that cycling can be a force for good.
As Jackson says, “If you see the commitment and professionalism at the Children’s Cancer Institute, it makes it pretty easy to keep going. They are making world-leading advances in childhood cancer.”
The Bowral Classic invites riders and supporters alike to get behind the fundraising efforts and help make every kilometre count.