National Cycle Challenge for Mental Health

National Cycle Challenge for Mental Health

Ride out of the Blue is a charity bike ride travelling from Bluff to Cape Reinga, aiming to raise money and awareness for suicide and depression. Throughout the journey riders will stop in 21 towns and cities, bringing these issues to the forefront of New Zealanders' minds.

Our riders are from all walks of life, from ‘Outrageous Fortune’s’ Aidee Walker to mothers, grandmothers, and waitresses. They all have personal experiences with depression and suicide, and are hoping to share their stories. This will initiate conversation within communities about mental health, and reduce the stigma surrounding it.

Funds raised from the Ride will go towards a 'Mindfulness in Schools' initiative. This preventative approach will give youth the skills to deal with their emotions before they become a problem.

New Zealand has a devastating suicide rate, with 1.5 people taking their lives every day. The rates are especially high among youth and Maori and Pacific Island males.

In order to change these horrifying statistics and reach the most at risk demographic we will also holding talks at schools to educate young New Zealanders about mental wellbeing.

ENDS

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