By Kerry Larsen - kerry@thenewsport.com.au

Sisters Jan and Vicki Ward are well known around Port Douglas, whether they’re representing Port Douglas in outrigger canoe racing, jogging the local streets at dusk to keep fit, or having a beer at the footy supporting their beloved Port Douglas Crocs.

The two ladies are taking on yet another challenge – the upcoming Whitelion Jungle Ride from Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation - to help raise funds for kids caught up in the juvenile justice system.

Jan said event organiser, Lesley Stephens, had encouraged her to take part in last year’s ride, and despite much apprehension and nervous anticipation, the sisters had the time of their lives.

Jan and Vicki both agreed it was a fantastic experience, and thought the food and drinks, the great company, and the scenery along the way were some of the most memorable points for them.

Lesley said she explained to the girls that once you could ride for about an hour on the bike then you would be able to complete the ride, so the girls built up to an hour at a time, eventually hiring better bikes for the ride and said they just didn’t notice the distance as they were having so much fun.

“People just chat to each other and before you know it we were stopping for food and drinks,” Jan said.

“Then once we were over the ferry it seemed like no time before we were at PK’s in Cape Tribulation.”

The girls bought bikes soon after the ride, now ride regularly, and are looking forward to this year’s ride.

Last year 90 riders took part, and with nominations flowing in for the October 29 event, even more riders are expected to take part in 2011.

Former AFL footballer and Whitelion co-founder, Glenn Manton, is coming to Port Douglas to participate in this year’s ride, as are some Whitelion staff.

For those who think they couldn’t possibly do such a ride, but would really like to give it a go, Lesley says all you need to do is start riding and bike a get a few sessions happening and before you know it your fitness will increase and you will be able to do it.

“Probably the hardest part is toughening up your seat, and you don’t even notice that on the day,” Lesley said.

“It’s always great to grab a friend to ride with as it make the effort seem so much easier and I hope the recent incredible success of Cadel Evans in the Tour de France will encourage more people of all ages to take part.”

For more information, please contact Lesley on las56@bigpond.net.au or phone 0418 792 321.
Alternatively you can go directly to www.whitelion.asn.au and register for the ride.