The Cambodia Cycling Federation (CCF) previously organised a fund raising charity ride to Siem Reap province. CCF
Cyclists from nine provinces have registered with the Cambodian Cycling Federation (CCF) for the “Phnom Penh-Battambang Ride” – a total distance of 292 kilometres. The event will raise funds to support underprivileged children through the HOPE for Cambodian Children Foundation, which is located in Battambang province.
The philanthropist pedallers will set out on February 15.
Nou Chamroeun, CCF secretary-General, explained that most of the participants and their supporters will gather in front of the Royal Palace at the front of the Constitutional Council (Royal Palace) at 4am, for a 4.30am departure.
The group is expected to arrive at HOPE foundation’s Battambang location at 5.00pm.
A convoy of 10 BMW motorcycles will escort the cyclists from Phnom Penh all the way to Battambang province. Other cyclists will join the peloton at five points along the way.
Chamroeun noted that the 80 participants come from eight provinces: Kandal, Kampot, Kampong Speu, Kampong Chhnang, Pursat, Battambang, Banteay Meanchey and Siem Reap, as well as Phnom Penh.
“The main purpose of organising this event is to raise money and supplies for the HOPE Foundation, which is currently in need. Furthermore, we want to inspire all the cyclists participating in this event, from Phnom Penh to Battambang, to promote the sport of cycling and raise awareness of tourism in Cambodia, which has many tourist destinations both in the capital and in the provinces,” he said.
This will mark the first time the federation has organised a charity ride to Battambang.
Chamroeun noted that last year, the CCF held the “Phnom Penh-Siem Reap Ride”, which successfully raised 21 million riel ($5,200) in cash and supplies for the Angkor Children’s Hospital.
“Through donations from the participants and through our event page, we have already exceeded $1,000, and the federation has also donated supplies like rice, milk and water. We urge other citizens to contribute more so we can raise additional funds to support HOPE,” he added.
Thy Sothoeurn, director of the HOPE foundation, expressed his happiness at the partnership with the federation.
He added that the collaboration will enable the foundation to buy bicycles and supplies to help nearly 100 children in their community who are in need.
“While the funds we will receive through this cycling event may not be large compared to what we’ve received from international donations, we are truly happy to have established this relationship with the national sports federation. We will make sure to give them the warmest welcome as a token of our gratitude,” he said.
“I believe this event will help instil a spirit of cooperation among our children. With all the cyclists being Cambodians, the direct connection they create with our children will have a greater impact than foreign aid. This ‘Cambodians helping Cambodians’ spirit will also inspire both parents and children to continue their education for a brighter future,” he added.
