Hands Across The Water Bike Ride - Dan's Blog

Australia Day from Bangkok

2012-01-25T17:46:00.001-08:00

It is Australia day and I find myself alone in Bangkok reflecting on the last month. It has been a magical time, we suffered in the heat, wind, rough roads and steep hills. But through perseverance we reached our goal.

We enjoyed the celebrations, the dancing and the parties, but it is only through the long, hard and enduring persistence that we make real change. The impact we make at Hands is not one off. Like the bike ride, there is a lot of grinding away, it isn't the sexy stuff that changes lives, it is the consistent, persistent pursuit to fight for the kids that makes it sustainable.

The last person to address us as a group was Khun Um, she has just finished high school and is heading to University to study English. Her tearful, heartfelt message was that she will never forget the help she has received and that she will return to help the kids when she has finished. Because the struggles go on and on, so do we.

The hills seem endless, you feel like you want to get off the bike. It would be easier to just give up... But as Australians it is not in our nature, we love the fight, and we love to fight for the underdog.

So this Australia day I hope we all show our patriotic spirit by helping out a mate who is doing it tough. Show kindness, acceptance and embrace the spirit that is inside us but that we are slowly eroding with our insular protectiveness and fear of outsiders. That is not Australia, we are the ones who fight for our mates, even the ones we haven't met yet, and especially the ones doing it tough.

Saying goodbye

2012-01-25T04:15:00.001-08:00

It's never easy, after 2 soccer games we said goodbye to the children. But it gets easier.When I say Laow Pop Gan (see you again), I know that it is true. In Bangkok I will meet Khru Prateep to discuss the New Life project. The job is not done yet...

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We made it!

2012-01-24T00:40:00.001-08:00

More words need to be written but at the moment I am just worn out! What a magical experience and a wonderful final day.
To my dear friend Peter Baines, you are a true hero! Thanks for making this all happen!

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Last day thoughts

2012-01-23T15:34:00.001-08:00

In this world there are many bad people and many good people, but there are very few special people. These are the ones who risk it all for others, who fight their way out of the slums only to willingly return to fight for a better future for there neighbors. Those who give up their lives, spouse and devote their lives to these kids. Those who sell everything to follow a dream to make the lives of others better at the detriment of their own even in the face of an unthinkable battle with cancer.

To Khru Prateep, Khun Rotjana and the wonderful Mae Thiew, you are the special ones! You save lives of kids everyday, you choose to live this life and I am both honoured and humbled to be on your presence.

Onwards and upwards!

2012-01-23T04:10:00.001-08:00

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Day 7... So close!

2012-01-23T00:43:00.001-08:00

Today was tough! 106km through jungle sided roads and hills... Oh the hills!!! We pushed hard in parts and were lucky to end at a beautiful spot in the mountains! Looking forward to an amazing day tomorrow. Here is a pick of me and the co-pilot.

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Meet Nang a sign of hope!

2012-01-22T03:49:00.001-08:00

To this day, Prateep is still not sure where Nang is from. She cannot remember where she was born, but she knows her parents sold her to the street gangs when she was very young. At the age of 6 the gang would send her out to beg on the streets every day. If she didn't earn at least 500bht each day they would burn her with cigarettes and beat her. The beatings were continuous as they helped her look more needy to make money. For years they would break her nose to make her look needy and hopefully earn them more money on the streets.
Prateep was able to rescue her from the gangs and provide her a new life. Nang has had 2 major plastic surgeries to help correct the damage she has suffered, but she still wears the scars all over her body from the cigarette burns. She still thinks she is ugly and has struggled with interacting with people sometimes due to her experiences.
The New Life program has supported her for a number of years and she this year is starting her second year of University studying Communications. It was so lovely to meet Nang but it is clear that without the support of the foundation her future would be so different as it is for the hundreds of children still walking the streets of many south east asian cities begging for money. This is why we need to support the amazing people like Prateep to keep chipping away at the problems and changing the lives of these young people who've had their childhoods stolen.

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125km to Surat Thani!

2012-01-22T01:56:00.001-08:00

A long hot day but only a few small hills. Great effort by everyone supporting each other, tonight we are across from a tesco so it's KFC for dinner and a good rest, tomorrow we hit the mountains!

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New Life Project

2012-01-21T07:30:00.001-08:00

Tonight we visited another of Prateep's projects. New Life looks to give skills, confidence and a brighter future to kids who have suffered abuse, neglect and substance dependencies. Some of these kids have suffered do much so we had a great dinner & dance!

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Day 5 team tank still going strong

2012-01-21T02:08:00.005-08:00

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Day 5 welcome committee

2012-01-21T02:08:00.003-08:00

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Day 5 crash

2012-01-21T02:08:00.001-08:00

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Day 5 viewpoint

2012-01-21T02:06:00.001-08:00

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Day 5 110km to Lang Suan

2012-01-21T02:05:00.001-08:00

Tough day with a few sharp little climbs, some nasty crashing but the tank rolls on and we are only a few hundred km's from the final stop.

Some amazing efforts by the team today, thanks to Ken for letting me steal his bike for a solo crack at the climb to the view pt. and a massive thanks to Ben, Luke and Greg for pulling us along at top speed on the flat section. We ate off to see the kids at a project nearby tonight, and another BIG fireworks show!!!

Saddle up team

2012-01-19T01:10:00.001-08:00

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Wet and tired!

2012-01-19T01:09:00.001-08:00

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End of day 4...

2012-01-19T01:07:00.001-08:00

Wow that was tough! 116km of hills, the downs never seem as long as the ups and after belting rain for 20min we had very hot sun for the rest of the day. A number of us struggled from time to time but it was great to see te fast finishers going back to help out. I even grabbed John's bike and raced back to give my boy Tony some company over the final km's.
Rest day tomorrow... And I think we all need it.

Day 4... Before the storm!

2012-01-18T16:14:00.001-08:00

Setting off for day 4, historically a challenging 100+km day with hills to greet our tired legs and sore bums.
I spent most of the night coughing as I battle a bit of a cold, all the aircon over here messes with you!
Today will be a massive challenge for everyone so we'll all need to dig deep, remember why we are here and focus on ticking off the km's. Tomorrow is rest time!!!

Day 3 to Ban Krut

2012-01-17T22:47:00.001-08:00

Rolling on to lunch, pasta and lasagna to come!!!

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Sunrise here is spectacular!

2012-01-17T15:34:00.001-08:00

If this doesn't fill us with hope for a good day riding nothing will!

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Tonight's dinner surprise

2012-01-17T08:16:00.001-08:00

Tonight I had the absolute pleasure of introducing Khru Prateep to the group. While we have previously mentioned her name I wasn't sure all the other riders really knew her amazing story.

So Prateep in her most humble manor as usual told us all that today in the overwhelming heat on the bike, it reminded her of her childhood scrapping rust and paint off the ships at just 12 so she could pay for her night school because although she lived in the slum she believed that all people deserve education. Then she told us how she built the first school in the slums and how the police tried to shut it down because it was illegal to teach more than 7 people at once. But Prateep persevered and at 26 won the prestigious Magsaysay Award, the only recipient younger being the Dhali Lama at 25.

Prateep finished by thanking us all specially Peter who had made such massive contribution to the lives of the kids at BTN. I must say, I have never seen a more captivated and appreciative audience in my whole life. What an honour I have and how lucky we all are to be with such wonderful women as Khru Prateep and Mae Thiew!

Day 2 to Pratchup 120km

2012-01-17T02:20:00.001-08:00

Wow it was hot today, we did a mammoth 120km with crashes, temples, monkeys and a beautiful coastline to finish. I found it pretty tough on the tandem as did . She has had eye and backside pains (probably not related) but this has meant she has had little energy to pedal. So I am just lucky she is only small so I can pull her along.
The group is really starting to bond now and we all are starting to understand the magnitude of the effort. Should be some awesome days ahead but for now it is pool and a cold beer (with lots of water also).

Chris took a spill

2012-01-17T02:17:00.001-08:00

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Stuffed!

2012-01-16T03:24:00.003-08:00

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Day 1 88km to Hua Hin

2012-01-16T03:24:00.001-08:00

Well that was a warm (read: HOT) welcome to the south of Thailand. Leaving Bangkok by bus we endured 2hrs of Bangkok traffic before reaching our bikes and setting off. Khun Rotjana and kids from DPF were at a water stop to cheer us on and it was lovely to get to know some of the new riders.

Last night Peter spoke about how the time for excuses is over and we all battled at different times today, some before lunch, some after, but we also enjoyed each others company at the finish with a dip in the pool and a few beverages.

Working with Khru Prateep is such an honour! She is kind and gentle and greets all the people with such kindness. We have a long journey ahead with 115km tomorrow but feeling with a bit of ice, and a slight grimace or two, my knee will hold up and we'll spin our way into another amazing party in 8 days time!

Lunch day 1

2012-01-15T23:49:00.001-08:00

No Internet at the hotel but is at this little shop in Cha-Am. Been great to get to know ppl on the ride and to spend time on the tandem with Kru Prateep. Will give a check in this afternoon, but love to call out Dave Marshall who has raised almost $50,000!

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Just love hugs

2012-01-13T03:15:00.001-08:00

The kids at Home Hug are so sweet, well behaved and very polite, but what they miss is affection! They love hugs, they love to have people close to them, to touch your hands, to lean their head on your shoulder and feel the care and love we bring.

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Last night of ride 1

2012-01-12T09:01:00.001-08:00

What an amazing night! We shared dinner with the kids of Home Hug, Mai Thiew looked stunning dancing for us, then we all danced for hours having a great time. Mai Thiew hugged me with such love and we shared a tear or two. Our journey on the tandem has had many bumps along the way, but as I was there tohelp her get through the ride, so is Hands there to help achieve her dreams.

The happiness and love in the eyes of the kids is a true reflection of the magic that happens here in Yasothon. I am so proud I can be a part of that and now look forward to coming back one day to see my friends and share in the love.

Words of Mae Thiew

2012-01-12T02:29:00.001-08:00

"While we are alive we should love others as much as we can. Don't wait until they are gone and weep for nothing. Death is the conclusive chapter of the love you mutually share with someone. Tears cannot bring the dead back to life. So please give them love and access to medicine. Most of all, give them happiness" - Mae Thiew

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The Tank in action!

2012-01-12T02:04:00.001-08:00

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Day 8 into Yasothon

2012-01-12T00:10:00.001-08:00

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Day 8 into Yasothon

2012-01-12T00:09:00.001-08:00

We made it!!! After 8 days and almost 800km we rode into the wonderful Home Hug and were greeted with 80smiling faces, a delicious lunch and even some breakdancing by the little ones.

Khun Thiew was so amazing today both on the bike and when she came to see the kids. It was so touching that the children had made us gifts and held our hands to show us around the orphanage. Having seen it in 2010, I was blown away by how much the renovation guys have been able to achieve.

The kids are happier, healthier and there is a deep sense of hope in their eyes. I made lots of new friends but none more do than Khun Thiew. What a beautiful and extraordinary woman and I felt truly honored to deliver her to her orphanage! Tonight we celebrate dinner with the kids before heading off to Bangkok to rest up for the second ride!

Mae Thiew is happy now!!!

2012-01-11T03:58:00.001-08:00

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Day 7 124km!!!! Almost there!!!

2012-01-11T01:41:00.001-08:00

Day 7 done!!! Knee was buggered for the first 60km but it came good and we finished off the 124km day with a nice tailwind which was an awesome change!!!

Thanks for the encouraging words it has really helped. Need a shower and get ready for some celebrations!

Making friends

2012-01-11T01:37:00.003-08:00

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Making friends

2012-01-11T01:37:00.001-08:00

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Ready for a big day 7... What a sunrise!

2012-01-10T15:50:00.001-08:00

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My mate Khun Wutt

2012-01-10T03:33:00.001-08:00

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Khun Eet rides 15km 

2012-01-10T03:32:00.001-08:00

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Day 6 80km to Mukdahan

2012-01-10T02:53:00.001-08:00

Just had my most painful 15km ever, my knee is really sore and I fear I might struggle with the 125km we have tomorrow.

However the inspiration I get from Khun Thiew will at least have me ready to give it a crack! I found out the reason the bumps hurt is due to the tubes that are in her stomach that are used to flush her cancer ridden pancreas twice daily. Hard to believe she can do what we've already.

Time to rest up, as with Khun Thiew's cancer, I need to learn from my body's pain and rest tonight.

Just another morning on the Mekong!

2012-01-09T16:32:00.001-08:00

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Passenger for the next ride

2012-01-09T02:17:00.001-08:00

With a few days to go I'm already thinking about the next ride. I will have the amazing honor of staying in the tandem with another incredible woman. Here is her wiki page... Inspiring just doesn't cut it http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prateep_Ungsongtham_Hata

Day 4 100km thoughts...

2012-01-09T00:53:00.001-08:00

While the official day was only 70km today, a few of us grabbed the bikes and spun out another 30km to bring up the tonne! Was fun to be back on a normal bike and get up some good pace!

Had a good chat to Pete too and he reminded me of the amazing growth Hands has experienced. His original plan was to raise $100,000 a year. Last year we raised over $1.4m and have been able to make a huge difference to many more children.

Khun Thiew explained that her kids used to feel they lives in the dark, hidden from the world. But since Hands has come to help they feel happy and hope for a better future. She used to just think about surviving day by day, but now she can dream of a better future and the kids dream of it too. Many want to come on the biker ride like their dear Mae (Mum) Thiew

Day 4 100km to That Phanom

2012-01-09T00:52:00.001-08:00

Day 4 100km to That Phanom

2012-01-09T00:45:00.001-08:00

The co-pilot and I at lunch. What an amazing lady! She keeps pushing so hard on the pedals and I know each little bump is a shot of pain for her. She last night asked me to stay at the orphanage for a few days as the boys lack role models, so flattered!

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View from our hotel of Laos

2012-01-08T16:23:00.001-08:00

Time to get ready for day 5 of riding!

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Buddhist ceremony

2012-01-08T02:47:00.001-08:00

This morning our guide Khun Gae took us to a temple where she was making an offering for her parents new house. Was lovely to see and be part of such a gentle ceremony.

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Mountains in Laos just over the river

2012-01-07T00:12:00.001-08:00

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Day 4 99km to Nakhon Panon

2012-01-06T23:30:00.001-08:00

Another 99km down! The tank is going well, really tested it out today with long stretches of dirty, muddy roads. As you can see from my feet it was rough! Khun Thiew had very few breaks today. She is so strong of spirit it is amazing! Tomorrow is rest day!!

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Khun Thiew video

2012-01-06T15:31:00.001-08:00

Here is the wonderful, amazing woman that is co-piloting the tank tandem with me talking about her orphanage.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_wxohax6RU&feature=youtube_gdata_player

The 'Tank' in action!!!

2012-01-06T00:34:00.001-08:00

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Pics from day 3

2012-01-05T23:27:00.001-08:00

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Day 3 - 98km to Ban Paeng

2012-01-05T23:25:00.001-08:00

Today was pretty tough, 98km in dirt & gravel, we are all hot, muddy and a little sore! We had some beautiful back roads today with a number of awesome spots near the river. The Mekong is an amazingly big and fast moving beast making the surrounds beautiful!
Khun Thiew found the bumpy, rough roads a real struggle I think, although all she ever says when I ask if she is alright is "okay, okay" and keeps pedalling. She spent a lot of time today with her feet on the bar and her head down, I suspect dealing with the discomfort she is in. However when our guide told her she can get in the van if she is feeling tired her reply was a determined "No way!". She is remarkably strong and I am continually inspired by her courage.
In town here there is a Tesco Lotus (big shopping centre) so no doubt a few will go in search of KFC or McDonalds, it is so great though to be surrounded by such a supportive team here on the ride and an even bigger group of passionate supporters back at home! Thanks for reading, love to hear your comments (Thanks Natasha!!!) Tomorrow is 99km to Nakhon Panom... we'll all be glad to finish and let our hair down before the rest day on Sunday!!!

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Not all hard work

2012-01-05T16:07:00.001-08:00

This cool little bar was pretty happy to see is coming! 2 rounds of beer & cocktails was $40 and Billie-Ann bought a bottle of imported French red wine. Great to start to get to know the fellow riders :)

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Day 2 - to Bueng Kan

2012-01-05T03:08:00.001-08:00

Today was a nice short day and we visited a school along the way. Was great to kick the soccer ball around with the kids and we finished by lunch time. In the afternoon we headed to a local temple that is based on a mountain. The temples has 7 'floors' with walks and wooden walk ways all around it. It was beautiful and very scary! But I think the most amazing was the top. Like our lives we seem to climb and climb with determined expectation for something grand. While we scaled the heights of this mountain and saw beautiful Buddhas, and wonderful views, we spent most of our energy climbing and navigating the treacherous wooden walk ways hanging us well above the sheer drop down the mountain, always climbing, always striving for the top.

But at the top there is nothing, no temples, not statues,just a small forest of bamboo and trees. It was designed this way to represent our lives, we should enjoy the journey and not labour up the steps. We should look around and take in the view, look at the trees and enjoy our lives because in the end we all reach the same ending. The top being empty symbolizes the peaceful nothing that the buddhists believe awaits, so enjoy your climb, enjoy the hard times and the easy.

Tomorrow we have a hard 98km so time for a beer and dinner! Thanks for reading!

Walk way

2012-01-05T02:59:00.001-08:00

Here is a video from our adventure up a mountain today. The walkway was the scariest ever, but the message was great! Trust!

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Khun Wutt next to the Mekong

2012-01-04T22:38:00.001-08:00

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Day One - 93km

2012-01-04T00:45:00.001-08:00

93km from Nong Khai is a little town... I'd love to tell you the name but I am not so sure! I think it is Pak Khat, but what I know is it is on a beautiful corner of the Mekong River and our hotel has a view of absolutely NOTHING but the river and trees along the river as far as I can see.

Today was pretty tough for all, we had few hills but a horribly persistent headwind pushing us back for the majority. Khun Thiew and I had an interesting day developing a language and system to coordinate our pedalling with her taking a number of breaks (tucking her feet up on the centre bar).

This learning has been a great metaphor for our partnership with the orphanage in Yasothon. Khun Thiew told me "You are helping me and I am helping you, but we need to learn how to work together to help. This is like how Hands Across The Water and Baan Home Hug (Yasothon orphanage) have to learn to work together."

I thought about this while my legs burned and my bum became increasingly sore... We usually think about charity work as a one way street, but it needs to be a partnership working together, listening to each others signals, understanding each others strengths and weaknesses, supporting each other and celebrating success together. Looking forward to day 2!

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Day Zero

2012-01-03T06:04:00.001-08:00

Today we all reached Nong Khai, a small border town seperated from Laos by the Mekong River. There is a wonderful nervous anticipation in the group as tomorrow we set off into the unknown from both a geographical and physical perspective. I got my first look at the mighty tandem bike that will carry myself and Khun Thiew to Yasothon. The group is small but we're all looking forward to the challenges ahead! Tomorrow we roll out at 7:30am so it is off to bed early and get ready to pull on the new jerseys and finish the first of the 1,600km we've got ahead.

Day zero

2012-01-03T05:59:00.001-08:00

Here is the Tank, our ride to Yasothon!!!

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Reflecting of Cambodia

2012-01-02T02:51:00.001-08:00

Amazing contrasts in Cambodia. Seeing the fun, young diamond island fair. Hopefulness of the children and the buzz of a new city! Phnom Penh is a great city that is fast growing out of the horrific past.
The killing fields of Cheung Ek are a look into the tainted history. This site shows the horror of humanity, the tyranny of ignorance and the sad truth of what we are capable of. Seeing a tree next to a mass grave where children were held by the feet and swung into the tree before being thrown into an open grave is a stark reminder of how horrible and cruel we can be to each other. Cambodia is a wonderful place with a sad past, but the wonderfully resilient young people are quickly repairing, rebuilding and dreaming of a future that will see Cambodia become the lotus flower blossoming from the dirty mud of the past.

Count down to the Big Bike Rides!

2011-12-21T00:20:00.001-08:00

With just a few weeks until we set off to Thailand to cycle across some unfamiliar roads in the Northern region of Isan I thought it time to build my Blog!

In great news, thanks to the wonderful help of so many, I have managed to raise over $23,500 this year for Hands Across The Water. This money will make a wonderful difference to the lives of so many children and for that I thank you all!

On the riding news, I've been granted the wonderful honour of sharing a tandem bike with Khun Thiew. This incredible woman had a dream some 20yrs ago to provide a home for children impacted by or living with HIV. A home that would provide shelter, love and a sense of normality to combat the segregation and abuse they have felt in their sad young lives. Not only is Khun Thiew leaving her kids for the 8 days and setting out to complete the gruelling 800km, but Khun Thiew is also suffering pancreatic cancer. This journey will be a challenge in so many ways, so I am so honoured to be the one who gets to help her along the way.

Over the coming weeks I will share will you the pictures, the stories, the highs and lows of our amazing journey. During Jan 4 - Jan 13 I'll be cycling through the remote North East so internet access will be a little tough at times. Bear with me, we always love to get any comments and words on encouragement. Thanks for supporting us this far and hopefully we'll do you proud!

Sunitha Krishnan fights sex slavery | Video on TED.com

2010-08-29T04:32:00.000-07:00

Sunitha Krishnan fights sex slavery | Video on TED.com

When it comes to courageous leadership, this lady is among the most amazing examples you could ever have the pleasure of listening to. A must see presentation.

Great quote

2010-08-23T22:40:00.001-07:00

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our dark that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people don't feel insecure around you.We are all meant to shine as children do. Its not just in some of us; its in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsiously give other people to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
Coach Carter

Update on the fundraising

2010-02-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

Hello again all,

Well back at work and missing the kids, Thailand, bike ride & riders already!

Just giving an update, together the ride raised over $380,000 for Hands Across The Water!!!

Personally I managed to raise over ~~$12,550~~ $13,300!with some donations still coming in.

Thanks to everyone who got involved and helped make this happen, I am so grateful to be able to represent your good will and thoughtfulness in helping the kids.

Daniel

Day 10 - The day after

2010-01-27T15:47:00.000-08:00

Today was probably the hardest day of the ride even though we never got near a bicycle. For me anyway, it was a day of reflection with a visit to the Baan Nam Kem Memorial, a day of hope with a visit to the site for the community centre & the rubber plantation and a day of pure joy in being able to spend some time playing with the kids. We played a soccer match with the Burmese workers, the Aussie's fighting back to win 6-4 for Team Hands!

It is noticeable that we are treated very well when we visit, it is a celebration after all and you would hardly expect your neighbour not to clean up and put out the good china when you come over for dinner. But one thing that can't be turned on for the special guests is the deep and very real happiness that shines in the eyes of the kids, that dances on their words and touches your heart with every laugh and giggle that comes from their playful encounters.
Marilou and I had a really tough time saying goodbye... some of the kids we had really gotten close to and bonded with were close to tears at us leaving, this of course broke our hearts and our tears were shared in warm embraces and promises of a swift return.

The simple joy of watching Ong laugh while she flew through the air on the swings really hides the sadness of the previous years of her life. Ong was found picking through rubbish and was only surviving by receiving food from the local monks. She was born with a small defect that saw several of her fingers fused together and for a number of years had been lost to the normal world, pushed to the lowest ranks of society and without hope of a childhood. Through the love of our director Khun Rotjana, through the structure provided by Hands Across The Water and through the generous support of you, the sponsors and supporters, Ong has now had an operation to fix her hand. Ong now has a bed to sleep in, she goes to school, she has 43 sisters and 22 brother to play with, Ong has now got her childhood and her laughter is the essence of what we do... creating opportunities for a better future.

A selfish part of me would love to take some of these children to Australia and give them the wonderful privelages we take for granted, but that would be robbing Thailand and this community of their huge potential. Instead, I am resigned to continuing to my journey, continuing my work with Hands and never forgetting the special joy that can only be found in the laughter of a child who loves life.

Day 9 - The last day!!!

2010-01-26T17:01:00.000-08:00

And so the bike riding is all done! Up early the team excitedly challenged the 4km climb over the Khao Sok National Park with all making it successfully. Big mentions to Tom who took the polka dot jersey for winning the climb, the boys (Ed, Darren, Doylie & Tom) who went back down to help the back markers up and Nadine who due to knee injury couldn't cycle up, but managed to walk the 4km climb! There were tears at the top as many felt the pressure of the last 780km fade and the deep anticipation for the joy that the next 20km would bring to us all.

I got up the hill with the backpack and trailer despite some concerned faces at the bottom... sometimes you just have to want it! Overall the team did exceptionally well and cruised through the mild 50km ride to meet the kids at the outskirts of Takua Pa, ready for our escort into the orphanage.

We had quite an incredible afternoon, playing with the kids, sharing lunch and for me, handing out the 40-odd kg of stuff to the waiting arms of the kids. The rude shock on the first little pair of waiting hands when I handed him a 5kg bag of washing powder was soon erased as many hands came to help take away the items you helped me bring all this way through Thailand. The bike ride this year raised just over AUD$360,000 and we were able to present a cheque for AUD$1,000,000 for the construction of the Tsunami Refuge camp; Community Centre at Baan Nam Khem. This will be a huge step for the community here providing not only support and education for the people of the region, but some confidence that if the tragic events of Boxing Day 2004 occur again, there is a safe place for more than 1,000 people on the roof of the magnificent structure we are building.

Tonight was possibly one of the most amazing events I have ever been to. Our great friends and supporters at Le Meridian hosted us for a massive buffet dinner with dancing, amazing food and a surprise wedding (Congrats to Andrew and Gabe!!!). My highlights were being able to constantly hear the laughing and singing as the riders, our loved ones and the happy smiling faces of the kids all blended and danced on the wonderful beach overlooking the calm Khao Lak waters.

We then lit sky lanterns to remember those who died in the tragic events of the 2004 tsunami and enjoyed watching the eyes of the kids, flickering with hope in the flames of lanterns. It is their hope that made the ride worthwhile, it is what we are all here for and it is what you all have helped us achieve. The future is never certain if left to chance and we should never be the ones who thought they could have helped but 'stuff' got in the way. Tomorrow we wrap up the final festivities of the tour with a visit to the rubber plantation and a game of football, but the journey of Hands Across The Water is far from done. On behalf of all of us, I welcome you to join us in what we do, or, find your own passion, your own piece of the world that you see as needing to be changed. Sieze it with both hands, drown the sorrow in your passion, squeeze out the troubles with your persistence and become the leader of a world that is better, even in a small way. Happy Australia Day, hope we did you proud...

Day 8 Surat Thani to Kho Sok

2010-01-25T08:06:00.001-08:00

It’s the penultimate day and we are quickly welcomed to the mountains of Thailand. I was personally on a low at breakfast and happy to find far more of the riders were bubbly and bright for our 102km ride to Khao Sok. This is a stunning mountain area, but the road is a main transport route from the city of Surat Thani to Phuket so the traffic is made up of scooters, cars, tour buses and large, overloaded trucks all rocketing along the winding, rolling hills. For most of today we were either climbing, in my case very slowly, or gliding down hills. Despite the extra effort, we had some tree cover and the climbs were a welcome change from the long hot monotony of the roads the day before.

There is a real buzz of excitement around the group with the majority of people enjoying a well earned beer in the pool surrounded by the towering mountains and thick jungle around us. For this reason this post will be rather short! But simply put we are but 57km from our destination. 57km until we feel the warm embrace of achievement, hear the enthusiastic cheers from the kids and the warm glow in the heart that can only be felt through the type of pain and suffering we have endured. We have but one final challenge, a large mountain climb that will test the legs, backs and minds of many on the team.

It’s not fear though that we will come to challenge this mountain with, but the stern determination we have all mustered, in ourselves and for one another over the last 7 days and 743km of the journey so far. Would love to hear from you all on the comments, have been passing these on to the riders and we are all so happy to know you are following us. My only concern for tomorrow is that the chain may break on the hill and I have to push it up with the pack & trailer. Even this scenario will not keep us from making it, from me getting over the hurdle and seeing my beautiful wife & the happy faces of all the kids, staff and volunteers there waiting for us.

Tomorrow will be a day we will treasure and remember for the rest of our lives, and I’m glad through your donations, through the Hands website and through this blog you could share a part of this with us. It’s the penultimate day and we are quickly welcomed to the mountains of Thailand. I was personally on a low at breakfast and happy to find far more of the riders were bubbly and bright for our 102km ride to Khao Sok. This is a stunning mountain area, but the road is a main transport route from the city of Surat Thani to Phuket so the traffic is made up of scooters, cars, tour buses and large, overloaded trucks all rocketing along the winding, rolling hills. For most of today we were either climbing, in my case very slowly, or gliding down hills. Despite the extra effort, we had some tree cover and the climbs were a welcome change from the long hot monotony of the roads the day before.

Day 7 - Lang Suan to Surat Thani

2010-01-24T03:27:00.000-08:00

Somewhere in the fierce bowels of hell it gets hotter than it was for us on the roads today, but few other places could be imagined to be so brutally fierce in terms of humidity & heat. The sun scalded us from above; the road radiated its heat at us from below. There were no trees to offer shade for much of the journey. Our epic 129km day, the longest on the tour, was a mix of harsh headwinds and long distance spans of open road. Today I also experienced a feeling that most cyclists know well, but fear greatly. During one of the very long stretches of road, I tanked. I had run out of energy, had no energy gels or bars to eat and no option but to continue on. When you reach this point on a ride, there is little that can be done but to slow down and keep going. Luckily for me the wondrous smiles of the beautiful people of Thailand was stationed along the massive stretch. Just farmers, mothers, kids and fruit vendors, all offering a smile that seemed to reach across their faces, beaming smiles filled with joy and compassion for the hardship oozing off of my face.

This was the energy that got me home and the reason we are all here. To help one another through, when we need it most, not just when it is convenient for us, or the flavour of the month.Today I watched Yong help Nellie up a long hill, his hand on her back pushing her along as they pedalled furiously up to the summit. I had Nong drop from the passing group and guide me into a water stop, ensuring I had company. There were no words spoken, none were needed. As we get closer to our goal, the group is becoming closer too and these friendships made on the harsh roads of southern Thailand will deliver happiness to both the riders and those at the orphanages for many years to come.

Day 6 - Chumpoun to Lang Suan

2010-01-24T03:19:00.001-08:00

Some days when riding you find the first 10minutes hard, your legs don’t really work, the speed seems too fast, the hills seems far steeper than your eyes are telling you and you just can’t get comfortable in the saddle no matter how you sit. Sometimes it is longer than 10 minutes, sometimes half an hour, sometimes an hour... Today for me it was the first 4 gruelling hours!

Today was a stunning scenic ride, some of the beaches we passed were outstandingly beautiful, but unfortunately we too often were more focused on the sharp inclines that had us winding up through coastal palm plantations and hot, humid jungle. We encountered a few hills of real gradient today that tested the depth of the gearing on my bike, the strain on my shoulders and the weight in my legs. The heat was suffocating with a relentless flow of sweat dripping off the tired faces of all the team. But more than anything else today was a lesson in perseverance through adversity. Sticking together and supporting each other as a team. Cheering in the riders at the back of the pack (which was most certainly me) into each water stop. Patting of backs, vocal encouragement or just a wink and a smile, all signalled that we were all part of something more special than the sum of the parts. Seeing Doylie & Darren ride back from the finish line to help motivate Nellie into the finish was such a special sight.

It reminds me of my favourite Vietnamese story, of the crane & the turtle. When there was a lot of rain the ponds would swell and the turtle had a lot of room to find fish and eat, but it noticed the crane had nowhere to land so came to the surface and offered its back as a place for refuge. Then when the draught came the crane could see the plentiful fish in the many shallow ponds, but the turtle could not move freely between them, so the crane picked up the turtle and helped him to other ponds.

When you are strong, look for those around you that are in a weaker position and help them, because sometime it may be reversed. It is a story I think of frequently while struggling along the hot roads, and one I hope you remember when the situation arises to be the provider of opportunity, fortune, dignity and grace.

Day 4 - Ban Krut to Chumpon

2010-01-21T19:54:00.000-08:00

I broke my daily ritual last night and instead of blogging I was enjoying the company of the fellow riders by the pool with a cold beer knowing that this morning I wasn’t getting on a bike or putting on a backpack. The rest day was warmly welcomed by all! The 115km ride yesterday is one of the toughest on the tour with several long hills that seemed to continually appear between the hot jungle roadside. It was the day that really snapped us out of the simple ambling along the beachside and into the world of pain and misery that is hot, humid hill climbs on long lonely roads.

There were several people racing off in the distance, but for most of us it was a story of surviving, battling through the pain in the legs, hands, shoulders & bum! Pushing through the sweat pouring down our faces and concentrating on the long white line that leads us to Chumpon Cabana. We had a few small incidents yesterday with Yong taking a small tumble and Maddie hitting the back of a ute, but no major damage done. Massive credit to everyone for the huge effort, Nellie pushed herself close to the edge but the steely determination in her eyes was an inspiration to us all and the grand reception of cheers and hugs when we rode into the hotel made it all worth it! Huge credit also to Kelsey & Jack for their awesome riding, truly amazing.

We all let our hair down last night, (some more than others) and are enjoying the restful peace of the Chumpon beach. It is another day to reflect on the hardships ahead for us, and the wonderful future we can bring to the Dek Dek (Children) of the orphanages. Although there are long hot roads ahead, we are just over half way and looking forward to reaching our goal on Australia Day!

So what is in the Trailer???

2010-01-20T03:18:00.000-08:00

Well here is the items we bought to tow down (more will be organised post the ride!) This stuff is all packed into the backpack & cart. In total it is approximately 35 - 40kgs (10kg in backpack & ~30 in the trailer). It sure is slowing me down, but we'll get there!
There is about 80 toothbrushes, 18 tubes of toothpaste, 6 towels, 48 bars of soap, 8 x 500ml Talcum Powder, 3lts of shampoo, 3.8ltrs of washing liquid and 10kg of washing powder... Thanks again to the wonderful people ho helped donate these items, can't wait to deliver them on your behalf!

Day 3 - Pratchup to Bang Krut

2010-01-20T01:56:00.000-08:00

Well a rather short day today of only 80km was a pleasant change for all. The morning started with the beautiful scenery of Pratchup’s sunrise and much expectation of a short ride ahead. We fed the monkeys peanuts and dealt with some aggressive little buggers snatching the plastic bags! The wonderful beaches just kept on coming and although we had a short stint of highway in the middle it was quickly erased from our memories by the spectacular coastline that stretched endlessly by our side.
We had a great little pit stop into a school which was great to see the little faces light up! We caught the kids at lunch and although I think we scared a few it is great to see the kids wanting to talk to us and practice their English skills.

It was a day that I personally found challenging mentally as the long 13km stretch of highway was where a few of us pushed very hard to get through last year. This year I was at the rear of the pack trying to conserve my energy for the long day tomorrow of hills. I am learning the mental pain of putting aside your pride and focusing on the long road ahead to achieve my goal.
My confidence in making it to Baan Tharn Namchai changes frequently throughout the day, but with each kilometre down, we get closer to success, just like with every dollar we raise, we make a difference to the lives of those we choose to help.

Day 2 - Hua Hin to Pratchup Khirikhan

2010-01-19T01:37:00.000-08:00

Day 2 was an amazingly big day, 120km in some nasty headwinds. Generally the team is holding together well with just a few small falls (Willie, Julie & Pete...), a small collision with a tuk tuk (Trish...), a dead body (not one of the team...) and lots of groups people chatting and getting to know each other. Was lovely to get away from the cities and see the beautiful smiles of the local people. We managed to go through a small fishing port via some small boats which was great.

I have found small hills make a huge difference to my ability to ride with the extra weight, but even more determined that the next 550kms will get me ready for the large mountain towards the end.
There was some concern for my back after day one, but I made some changes to the weights in the backpack & trailer and my shoulders are now much better, I finished much quicker and feel great!

I'm struggling a bit with getting pictures up and will keep trying. Our struggle goes on tomorrow as we make our way down to Bang Krut. Thanks for the well wishes both here and on Facebook, keep them coming the team LOVES it.

Internet issues

2010-01-18T14:58:00.001-08:00

Hi again, although I had planned to track the ride via the gps on my iPhone the lack of good Internet has made that not possible. Will try to update kore at next stop.

Day 1 - Bangkok to Hua Hin

2010-01-18T01:30:00.001-08:00

Our first day actually started last night with a wonderful dinner in the slums of Klong Toei in Bangkok. The Duang Prateep Foundation generously hosted a wonderful dinner full of food, singing and dancing. It was wonderful to see such beautiful smiles on the children of the slums. Their standard of living and future has been the passion of Khun Prateep Hata’s for more than 20 years and the wonderful work she has dedicated her life to is only outshone by the incredible humility and friendliness she so openly shares.

The ride kicked off with some children waving signs to see us off again, this year with 34 riders including 2 staff from the orphanage. The first day is a relatively easy 90km stroll along flat road, although the significant burden I have committed to made it one of the more difficult days I have spent in the saddle to date. The shopping expedition was successful with more than 35kgs of washing powder, soap, detergent, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, towels and talcum powder dragging on my back wheel and pulling on my now aching shoulders.
Clearly this ride will be a great journey for us all and I will need to be careful not to do any serious damage to my back on the trip. So far, so good. Now to enjoy the pool and cool ocean breeze of Hua Hin before we set off for more than 100km tomorrow!!!

Bangkok - Day Zero

2010-01-16T17:43:00.000-08:00

Having spent a few days in Bangkok sightseeing, eating too much wonderful & spicy food and sampling the lethal SangSom Thai whisky my stomach is rapidly adapting to Thailand once more. This is a vast city with choked roads carrying the rumbles of tuk tuks & scooters in the shadows of the limitless high rise buildings. It is a city of immense energy buzzing from mid-morning to the early hours with a completely relaxed undertone offering any type of entertainment that can be dreamed up by the endless influx of foreigners from right across the globe.

From the tattooed tribes of Khoa San Road to the sophisticated luxury of Siam Centre, the grandly ornate temples beside tacky souvenirs markets, the contrasts are stark, and for some overwhelming. Bangkok is a city I hated immediately when I first came almost 8 yrs ago. However as I’ve learned, hating the dirty ugly side of Bangkok is ignorantly dismissing the window to understanding the spirit of the Thai people. Their unrelenting passion to providing something better for their families, their deeply personal connection with their Buddhist beliefs that gives them an escape from the chaos that they are forced to live within daily. The musical tones of the Thai language dance from the smiling mouths everywhere you turn. Typing the word, Sawadee, does such injustice to the friendliness and warmth that is conveys when spoken by a Thai. While there are many things that can be said about Bangkok, both good and bad, the thing I have come to love about it is this warmth. So as we busily prepare to set off on our journey, I say to all my fellow riders, to all those supporting us from back home, Sawadee. Welcome to a journey across the land of smiles to help bring happiness, friendship and connect with the true beauty of Thailand.

Links now up and working!

2010-01-06T03:35:00.001-08:00

Hey all

Since I am pretty new and hopeless with this whole Blogging business, some of the links were not working. They should be all up and working fine now inculding the link to the Hands website, the donation link and the links to our wonderful supporters who have helped it all come together!

Love to hear from you all on here or Facebook, the countdown is on!!!

Daniel

Mumbai Slums

2009-12-19T04:52:00.000-08:00

Had the opportunity to be guided through the Largest slums in Asia, the famous Dharvadi slums of Mumbai.

I have never seen such amazingly harsh living conditions, nor so many friendly smiling faces! Especially of the children running through the twisted metal and buckled concrete alleys. Yes, there are smells & noises that punish the senses. Aluminium smelting for recycling next to a plastic recyling, on top of a shirt factory... the conditions may be terrible, but this bizarre mess of makeshift buildings and macabre litter filled laneways disguise the mass of physical product & human industry that has an output of almost USD$600m a year.

This is not an indication of the personal wealth of this area. With more than 1,600ppl per acre this heavily populated landscape is full to overflowing with chickens, goats, motorbikes and some of the happiest kids I have ever seen. As Bill Strickland says "The only thing wrong with these people is that they are poor. Thankfully that is a very cureable disease."

The sheer power of the human spirit is certainly something I have been given a massive reminder of during my time in Mumbai. While incredibly overwhelming, the conditions do nothing to destroy the beauty that shines through. Not once were we asked for money or food, we were never frowned upon nor ever fealt in danger. In an oppressive environment, the amazing splendour of a genuine smile not only surprises, but breeds a motivation for life that will be treasurd in my mind for many years to come.

Special thanks to Reality Tours in Mumbai for organising and guiding us through and for your amazing work in trying to create an improved educational platform for the little ones.

AGSM Presentation

2009-12-11T16:53:00.001-08:00

On my university trip in singapore I had the pleasure of sharing my Hand slides and videos with the class.

Thanks for the support guys and I only hope that the stories of the kids inspires u all as much as they inspire me!

New Pictures added to the Blog!

2009-12-08T05:34:00.000-08:00

Hey all

Well I'm starting to find out how to use a Blog!!! I'm sure that I'm not doing it right yet, but I'll get there in the end. I've added a bunch of pictures from the Chedi Thai dinner we held in October and a bunch of images from Marilou's month volunteering at the orphanages.

Enjoy!!!

Westpac fundraiser

2009-12-06T13:45:00.001-08:00

Hi all,
Had the pleasure of talking to the westpac NOC last week and they have come on board to help raise some extra funds for Hands! Thanks especially to Ivan for organising.

Not long til we take off and the training is going well.

Daniel

Pics from the 2009 Ride

2009-12-06T04:08:00.000-08:00

2009-12-06T03:55:00.000-08:00