HIIT26 Ride for Lifeline: Gather your mates—this September we’re cycling for a great cause

Posted on 7 August, 2023

26 hours of indoor cycling, spread across a team where someone must be cycling for every minute of the 26-hour period.

It sounds intimidating—but this September, hiit republic is urging Canberrans to rise to the challenge and join them. And when you hear why, you’ll want to do just that.

Taking place on Saturday 16 September (and into Sunday 17 September), at hiit republic Gungahlin, the HIIT26 Ride for Lifeline event will see teams of cyclists take to the saddle to raise money for our beloved Lifeline Canberra.

Teams can be formed of any number of people (hiit recommends 4-10 people) with each member able to rotate out as many times as they need over the 26-hour period, with a registration fee of $26 per person. Colleagues, family, friends—it doesn’t matter who forms your team, just that you’re keen to raise money for a great cause.

Participants are welcome to come and go as they need, meaning you don’t need to commit longer than your ride and you can always get respite in the dedicated chill-out zone with plenty happening on the sidelines, including DJs and yoga classes.

Why 26 hours and $26?

“We chose 26 hours because it represents the cost of Lifeline resources needed to help save just one more life—$26 for every life-saving call to Lifeline,” explains Rebecca Surman, Area Manager for hiit republic.

“Working for so many years in the fitness industry has enlightened us all to the important part exercise plays in people’s mental health. No matter who you are, no one is immune to both big and small struggles. Charities such as Lifeline, are so vital in providing support through people’s most testing times.”

Rebecca Surman and Matt Eikenhout.

For Matt Eikenhout, General Manager of HIIT Republic and parent company Viva Leisure, it’s about making sure no one is alone at their lowest.

“We all have had tough days, had friends and family go through difficult times, and no one should ever go through these times alone. Lifeline is a crucial point of contact for people who have no one to talk to when they need it the most. Lifeline save lives, and that speaks volumes to how important it is for us to support their cause.”

 

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As for those who would love to support the cause but are nervous at the thought of that much cycling, Rebecca has these words of encouragement.

“26 hours can seem so daunting but fear not, as we will have so many coaches and an amazing community at hand to support you and keep you safe and we have loads of things to entertain you on the day with DJs, yoga, and much more.”

“We would love people to be there at the beginning and the end, but if you are not on shift for the team bike, then you can come and go as you please. We welcome everyone to this event, and just encourage you to do what you can, remembering that we are all there to raise awareness and money for Lifeline ACT. If you decide being a rider is not for you, you can get involved by donating to our cause instead. You can also speak to one of our coaches directly by contacting gungahlin@hiitrepublic.com.au.”

Meanwhile, Matt is excited to see the hiit republic community rally.

“I am really looking forward to the community spirit being on show. People from all walks of life coming together to support an amazing charity. No doubt things will get tough physically and mentally—I am tipping the 2 am riders—however, this is about creating awareness and working together to get through the hard times, which in reality are not hard times at all.”

“And what better way to suffer a 26-hour endurance event, than for a worthy cause surrounded by an amazing community?” asks Rebecca.

We’ll raise a drink bottle to that.