Twenty-two times Around the Bay for Chris

Incredibly, the 2026 event was the 22nd time he has participated in Around the Bay, which is Melbourne’s largest one-day cycling event. This time Chris is riding in memory of his late mother, who lived with type 1 diabetes. 

“Although she hasn’t been with me for several years, I still have the memory of my mother living with diabetes late in her life,” Chris says.  

“I don’t remember when she was diagnosed, but she carried on with her life, with Dad, her family, and community as best she could, and I’m thankful for that.” 

Chris says he asks himself the same question every year when he sets off on this massive test of endurance: “why am I doing this?” The answer always reveals itself during the journey. 

“Surrounded by the hundreds of other participants, it’s great to see riders of all ages, riding bikes of all different kinds, each facing their own challenges in this event,” he says.   

“For me, it’s both a physical and mental test to ride the 220 kilometres each year, with the added impetus of riding for a cause like Diabetes Victoria, that encourages me to keep going and finish the ride.” 

Chris has been on his bike (named Fiona) regularly in the lead up. 

“Every ride that I do adds to my training, whether it be a short ride in the neighbourhood, or a longer one beyond nearby suburbs,” he says. 

“Getting used to unfavourable weather conditions has also been on my schedule. I’ve been out riding two or three times a week and you never really know what conditions will be like on the day.” 

With support from family and friends, Chris was able to drum up support and raise more than $1300 for Diabetes Victoria. 

“Taking part in this event is half the fun for me, the other half is the challenge to complete the 220km ride in under 12 hours,” he says.  

“It’s a long day on the saddle, but the sense of achievement that a rider feels when they cross the finish line – whatever the distance – is just fantastic. And a relief.” 

Chris says he is grateful to represent Diabetes Victoria and hopes his efforts will contribute to a brighter future for people impacted by diabetes. 

“My hope for the future is that people living with diabetes will continue to enjoy what their lives have to offer and enjoy sharing their lives with those that matter most to them,” he says.

“Better understanding, education, care and management of diabetes will assist all concerned.

To learn more about Around the Bay 2027, head to the Bicycle Network's website. For other ways to donate to Diabetes Victoria, you can see our fundraising hub.