 |
 |
How did TdK begin?
Tour de Kids (TdK) started in 2001 when a group of mates, for whom cycling was a passion, thought it would be a great idea to ride for a week in the Australian country side in a format similar to the Tour de France. Rather than just ride, they also wanted to raise money to help Aussie kids and their families via a variety of children’s health and well being programs. This remains the central driving force for all TDK riders.
Who are the main beneficiaries of the funds raised?
All charities supported by Tour de Kids focus on the health and wellbeing of Aussie kids. Starlight Children's Foundation is the major beneficiary. The composition of the remaining supported charities are determined in consultation with our major sponsors.
Will donations to Tour de Kids be tax deductible?
Yes, any donation over $2 is tax deductible.
Who pays the event costs of Tour de Kids?
The riders pay all the event costs associated with the Tour de Kids through their registration fees. In addition to this, some sponsors donate goods and/or services that are directly utilised in running Tour de Kids such as transport, food and drinks.
What levels of sponsorship are available?
The Tour de Kids could not happen without the support of its sponsors. There are four main levels of sponsorship: Team Sponsors, Competition Jersey Sponsors, Donated Goods and Services Sponsors and Individual Rider Sponsors (who help each rider personally raised $3000 each).
What is the route and how long does it take to ride?
Each year Tour de Kids riders cycle approximately 1000km across a different part of Australia. The tour runs for 7 days with an average speed of approximately 33kms/hr.
What does Starlight do?
Starlight Children’s Foundation (Starlight) is the main beneficiary of Tour de Kids.
Starlight's mission it to improve the resilience and wellbeing of seriously ill children and their families by
delivering programs that restore the joy and happiness that serious illness takes away.
Living with illness or injury can cause enormous strain in the lives of children and their families. The pain,
loneliness and isolation that sick children feel dominates their lives, and they often miss out on normal
experiences that healthy children take for granted.
Physical recovery is only part of the solution. Starlight delivers programs designed to make children happy and lift their spirits when they need it most. Starlight brings fun and laughter to children no matter what their illness or where they live. Starlight’s innovative programs include Captain Starlight, Starlight Express Rooms, Starlight Fun Centres, Wishgranting, plus Livewire and Club Ado for teenagers.
For more information on Starlight, visit www.starlight.org.au
How much training is required to be in shape for the Tour de Kids?
While Tour de Kids takes a week to complete, the training required to ride an average of 140-160 kilometres a day over a week takes a great deal of commitment from the riders.
Riders typically require 3-6 months of regular training to build the strength with each training ride often taking 4 - 6 hours. From Christmas it is recommended that 300-400km / week are scheduled. Riders should be prepared to ride steep hills up to 20km long with an average gradient of 6%.
What support do the riders have on the ride?
The riders have fantastic support during the ride; much of the effort is put in before the first pedal is turned. A truck carries all baggage and spare equipment behind the peloton while a smaller van leads the peloton with water, sugar and food supplies. At night the riders have access to massage therapists who ease their aching legs and backs. In recent years the peloton has enjoyed the service of a bike mechanic.
In addition, there are representatives from Starlight who assist in managing the Tour de Kids on and off the
road both with operational and fundraising support.
How many riders are typically on tour and where do they come from?
Typically there are 50 riders on the Tour de Kids ride. They come from wide variety of industries and
backgrounds mostly from New South Wales and Queensland.
How do I make a donation?
Simply click on the rider’s name you would like to support and you will be directed to their fundraising page.
Click the “Sponsor a Rider” or "Make a Donation" button to make your donation. You will be issued with a tax deductible receipt for all
donations over $2.
Why is Tour de Kids such a great riding experience?
Tour de Kids gives riders the opportunity to network with senior management. The tour promotes personal development through teamwork, health and fitness whilst making a difference by raising money for a number of children's charities.
Apart from riding what other activities occur on a Tour de Kids ride?
The cycling is usually finished by mid afternoon each day leaving time for washing, eating and preparing for the awards that will be presented that evening. Each night a different Team presents the Competition Jerseys for exceptional conduct on and off the bike during that day. Apart from having good laugh and a rest, the TDK riders often make visits to hospitals and the chosen charities en route.
