Woodanilling cyclists complete epic ride to honour locals taken by cancer

A group of Woodanilling cyclists have completed an epic 110km ride to raise money for the fight against a disease that stole those they loved.

The Woody Peckers and Team Garstone rode the 10th annual edition of the MACA Cancer 200 from Optus Stadium to Mandurah to honour the memory of Woodanilling locals Bev Crosby and Carol Garstone, who died of cancer.

The Woody Peckers, made up of Kerry Wilhelm, Ian, Bradley and Lance Muddgeway, donned colourful jerseys to honour Ms Crosby and Ms Garstone as they raised more than $12,000 from friends, family and community members.

This year’s MACA Cancer 200 raised a total of nearly $8 million for the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.

Ms Wilhelm encouraged everyone to get involved in next year’s ride by donating or getting on a bike.

“We should all realise that one day we all will be affected by cancer somehow,” she said.

“No one is immune to this awful disease so all will benefit from the amazing scientific developments in cancer research. It’s just about being a part of something that is going to ultimately affect you or your loved ones in the future.”

An awards ceremony was held which Ms Wilhelm described as an “inspiring, interesting, enjoyable and heartfelt evening”. She said the team was keen to join next year’s event.