MS1000

RACV MS1000 Trivia Night and Ferntree Gully North PS Walkathon

2010-04-24T05:27:00.000-07:00

We haven't quite reached our $100,000 fundraising target so our efforts will continue:

RACV supported an MS1000 Trivia Night on April 16th that raised over $1500.

In a massive effort which is gretaly appreciated, the Ferntree Gully North PS (where Cory works) held a student walkathon which coincided with the second last day of the MS1000. With money still to come in they have raised over $2000 which will be presented at an Assembly in a couple of weeks. Stay tuned for photos and watch out for other events....

Acknowledgements and Thanks

2010-04-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

The MS1000 would not have been possible without the help and support of a huge array of people - some of whom were organised well in advance and some who solved a last minute emergency and came to our rescue.

The following is a list of all these people and the participants in each of the legs. The value of our support crew cannot be mentioned enough as without them we would have fallen apart and not made the finish line.

Participants
The full 1029km - Cory Pearce, Andrew Edwards, Scot Edwards, Simon Hughes, Nick Hodder
Kayak Leg- Cory, Andrew, Simon, Scot, Nick, Josh (Day 1), Trav (Day 1)
Bike Leg- Cory, Andrew, Simon, Scot, Nick, Andrew P, Jeremy (Day 5), Hamish (Day 6), Josh (Day 6), Trav (Day 6)
Walk Leg- Cory, Andrew, Simon, Scot, Nick, Dianne, Brian, Marg, Gary, Eileen, Sarah, Zoran (Day 9 & 10), Katie (Day 10), Neil (Day 10 & 11), Lisa Moran (Day 10 & 11), Sonia (Day 10 & 11), John (Day 10 & 11), Ian (Day 11), Lisa McLean (Day 11), Daniel (Day 11), Julie (Day 11), Gaylene (Day 11)

Support Crew
Carmel and Ron Edwards
Marg and Bruce Pearce
Gerald Hodder
Eliza Edwards
Ian McLean
Ros Bloomfield (muffins)
Rosemarie, Melissa and Monica
Nick
Carolyn and Dave Dietrich (Wednesday, 24th)
Katie Ballard

Accommodation
Yarrawonga Holiday Park
Tocumwal Tourist Park
Picnic Point Caravan Park
Teresa and Wayne Cartledge
Koondrook Caravan Park
BIG4, Pioneer City Tourist Park, Swan Hill
Birchip Tennis Club
Birchip Leisure Centre
Kevin and June Weinert
Pyrenees Caravan Park, Ararat
Apollo Bay Holiday Park
Sea Tree Cottages, Yuulong
Port Campbell Holiday Park

For Help Both Big and Small
MSRA
F5M
Liz Yochum (Nutritionist and Personal Trainer)
Paterson Lakes Canoe Club
Channel 9
Dianne Tribe
Sky Blue
Canoes Plus
Fairfield Canoe Club
Outer Edge and Pat Kinsella
SEN Radio Melbourne
Rent-a-2-Way
Dorothy (Terang Laundromat)
Farmers Market
Rider Sports Wear
Gabe Bonnici
Super Special Screen Printing
Wayne McFarlane
All the Regional Papers who gave us coverage on our trip
Echuca YMCA

MS1000 Ch 9 News Article

2010-04-24T04:58:00.000-07:00

The Friday before we left (and hours before I lost my hair) Scot organised Ch 9 news to run a story on the MS1000. We thought it might be the filler feel good story after the weather but it turned out to be much more than we could have hoped for and helped to build our anticipation and excitement even more.

Snapshot of the MS1000

2010-04-24T04:47:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Ron for producing this little clip of the MS1000. It gives you an idea of what we did and what it was like. There will be a longer version to come so you could almost consider this the trailer....
Enjoy.

Day 11 - Joanna's Beach to Glenample Homestead

2010-03-25T03:33:00.000-07:00

Participants: Cory, Simon, Andrew, Nick, Scot, Ian, Margy, Diane, Gary, Sonia, John, Brian, Lisa, Daniel, Lisa, Gaylene, Julie, Eileen, Sarah, Neil

Support Crew: Bruce, Carmel, Ron, Nick, Katie, Ros, Carolyn, Dave

Game Day - the final challenge of the MS1000 which feels like it has gone so fast and yet Day 1 in Yarawonga seems like it was so long ago. We wanted to go out with a bang so had saved a nasty 44km as the final day's trek including what was marked on the map as the toughest section of the Great Ocean Walk in the first few hours. Due to the distance and concerns over finishing in the dark we decided to leave an hour earlier which was a logistical challenge considering the large group of participants we had for the day and the number of people who had stayed over from Day 10 and were leaving in the morning. We were in the car at 7.30am for the half hour drive to the start line and after a few photos were on our way.

We quickly realised it wasn't going to be a casual walk to the finish line when the first half took us 6 hours, with many steep ascents and many potentially dangerous descents, starting in the rain and wind and finishing in the hot sunshine. Diane's Go Go Gadget day pack got its full range of use as she worked through all her various weather ensembles. John, at 69, proved again his determination and resillience to tough it through to lunch. The lunchtime stop looked like a casualty ward with many patch up jobs on feet and many sad and sorry faces. As the original five had already covered 1003km by this stage there was a motion to abandon the third quarter of the day and head straight to the last 10km, but a quick crisis meeting refocussed everyone on what we had come to achieve and complete and each of the original five decided to have a crack at the whole thing and risk the potential of finishing after dark.

It proved to be a worthwhile risk as the second half of the day was much flatter and quicker than the first and we even had time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, including a stop at perhaps the greatest bush toilet in Victoria which had a perspex window looking out over the cliffs and ocean towards the Twelve Apostles when you were in the seated position. With glow sticks and a smile through grimaced teeth and dirty faces we all crossed the finish line just before 8pm.

In eleven days, the original five had paddled the whole Murray River Marathon course, ridden from river to sea following the Murray to Moyne course and trekked the full Great Ocean Walk (which itself is designed as a nine day walk) to cover 1029km. We had met many people and spoken to them about what we were doing and why and had increased awareness and understanding about Multiple Sclerosis. We had been joined along the way for individual days and whole legs by an array of people who we knew before the event but also people we met for the first time who wanted to come and join our challenge. They came from smal towns, interstate and even from around the corner, all united to work towards the aim of Foundation 5 Million to find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis and to achieve and challenge themselves.

At the end we had achieved two of the three aims we had set ouselves. We had completed the physical challenge and proven to ourselves that we could persist and overcome (challenges faced by MS sufferers everyday) and we had spread the word about MS and increased public awareness and understanding through the countless people we met along the way and the great media coverage we recieved. The aim that remains and will continue to be worked towards is the large fundraising target we set ourselves ($100,000) which will help enable Australia to continue to be at the forefront of MS research and strive towards a cure.

In line with that you can expect to hear from us again in the future to help us reach this goal ....

Day 10 - Blanket Bay to Johanna's Beach

2010-03-23T15:22:00.000-07:00

Participants: Cory, Simon, Eileen, Nick, Sarah, Andrew, Scot, Sonia, John, Margy, Diane, Gary, Neil, Katie, Zoran, Lisa, Brian

Support Crew: Bruce, Ron, Carmel, Nick, and the tyre place that fixed Carmel's car and gave her time for a manicure.

The penultimate day of the MS1000 saw us tackle 36km from Blanket Bay to Johanna's Beach. Featuring some spectacular views, we traversed beaches, clifftops and many rises and falls on a day that couldn't really decide whether it wanted to be warm and muggy or cold and windy, so it decided to be both.

We had a massive group of participants today (17) and the groupings and conversations changed regularly. We were self-sufficient, carrying all our lunch, wet and dry gear and lots of BBQ Shapes, with Brian also carrying a heavy camera to capture all of the scenery.

Today saw the debut of our eldest paricipant, Big John, at age 69, who defied the non-believers by completing the full day and then talking tonight about backing it up tomorrow. The full-time boys, who were now joined by their better halves, were again very quiet and touchy-feely but they weren't shy to make sure that Sarah and Eileen carried the pack their share of the time. True gentlemen.

Lisa Moran made her guest appearance in a fly-by on her way back to Adelaide and can certainly hold her head high as she breezed her way through the 36km without even a whimper, whilst also raising the calibre of conversation with her talk of research and work.

Neil and Gary bantered their way through the day with their talk of Mother England and how they'd won the Ashes as England but preferred the Socceroos in the World Cup. They were happy to flip and flop as Poms or Aussies, perhaps depending on which one would give them a winning result!

Katie blew a tyre (a nasty blister) and was forced to withdraw from the day with plans of returning tomorrow, but then pulled a heart string, sorry a calf muscle, unloading the bus, which has put her out of finals contention tomorrow.

We were all thinking today could be written up as "not that bad" until we got to the final kilometres which were along Johanna's Beach (no more than 1.5km) as the tide was coming in, there was no firm sand, it was ankle-deep soft, the wind was blowing a gale, it was raining, the waves kept chasing us, forcing some quick steps to escape, and we could see the end line but it didn't seem to get any closer. Indisputably the toughest part of the day.

Tomorrow feels like game day, the final day of the MS1000. For the five guys who have so far completed every single agonising, although enjoyable, kilometre, tomorrow is make it or break it as we will either be left stumbling at the final hurdle or stumbling over the finish line. Guess we'll have to wait and see, but Ian (the Director Sportif) coming off the bench for the final hoorah could be the difference and lead us to the holy grail - in this case Glenample Homestead (not very theatrical, I know).

Start time: 8:17am
Finished all together: 6:20pm

Day 9 - Apollo Bay to Blanket Bay

2010-03-22T00:52:00.000-07:00

Participants - Nick, Sarah, Eddie, Ei Leen, Scot, Cory, Marg, Diane, Zoran, Brian, Gary & Simon
Support Crew - Carmel, Bruce, Ronald

Originally the rest day, Day 9, was used to knock off half of the day 10 walk, turning 56km roughly into 23km.

It was nice to give the legs a work out, and to have a late start with breakfast at a local cafe.

The chant of the day became "lions and tigers and bears oh my" as we were warned of a large pack of tiger snakes ready to pounce causing us to watch our every step. In reality we only saw two snakes, both of which were not very interested in us. A little bit disappointing after all the hype. However it was a wallaby that stole the show after hopping from the bush onto the path and stared at us for a long time before snubbing us off for more hopping.

Leaving at 11am, we enjoyed a beautiful part of the walk along the beach and over cliff tops and there were some great opportunities for photos.

We were joined today by a few extra walkers who helped keep the slowly dying conversation from completely drying up. Sarah and Margy came off the interchange bench switching from support crew to participant and set a cracking pace. Whilst Sarah soothed Nick's sore muscles on the go, Ei Leen helped ease Simon's nerves about the possibility of snakes. But Simon was more concerned about the chaffing caused by the inbuilt under garments in his newly acquired hiking shorts, which he cut off (Magyver style) while continuing walking. Zoran found some in depth conversation about soccer, available from Scot. Gary worked hard representing his wife Ros, who has MS. Brian found it easy compared to a day of shearing sheep, and Diane provided the comic relief for the day with her snake proof gators (calf protectors) and cold water therapy at the end, wearing her socks in the ocean. However the gators were removed before the snakes arrived.

Day 9 was clearly the easiest so far and a good chance to give the bum a rest after 8 days of kayaking and cycling. We can almost smell the end and taste the celebratory beer that is waiting.

Start Time: 11.01am
Finish Time: 4.16pm

Day 8- Ararat to Port Campbell

2010-03-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

Participants: Andrew P, Eddie, Scot, Simon, Nick, Cory

Support Crew: Ron, Carmel, Marg, Bruce, Sarah, Melissa

Today completed the ride leg from river to ocean as we finished our section from the top to bottom of Victoria (520km in total). We faced our longest distance today at around 180km and to make it even harder we were buffeted by 30km/hr winds which switched between cross wind (most of the time), head wind (fair whack of the time) and a tail wind (just to tease us).
The morning started with a laugh as Bruce decided he wanted to get in on the action and slipped into his svelte slog to Sale cycling jersey and tried to sit on Cory's bike. Watching him trying to get his leg over the centre bar to get on the bike was priceless. In the end he got on but couldn't get off so he ended up lying the bike down and stepping over it. The 'real riders' worked super hard today and actually finished as a group for the first time, including Andrew Prosser who had never ridden more than 100km in a day before let alone 520km. A super effort.

The 3 stop strategy was definitely required today between the hills and the wind with the ladies managing to source out some interesting rest venues. The first being in Woorndoo where we enjoyed our morning tea on couches in front of a fire out the front of the local footy club and Terang's local laundromat provided a warm shelter from the wind at lunch.

Seeing the ocean was going to be our spur on to the finish line but it was so hilly that we didn't see it until the final 5om.
Port Campbell didn't know what had hit them when 6 very sore cyclists and some very enthusiastic support crew converged on the main street at about 6pm. The cyclists then headed straight to the cold water for some hydrotherapy. The water wasn't that cold but the wind and the rain that started as soon as we finished sure was.
Overall some very exhausted boys are enjoying a well earned rest and the prospect of a sleep in and later start tomorrow.
Towards the end of the kayak we were saying "bring on the bike" but it turned out to be just as bad, if not worse, so we'll keep our mouths shut about the impeding walk leg (the last 100km).
Start time 8:06am. All bikes in 6:04pm.
Looking forward to a bunch of fresh faces arriving tomorrow, especially our F5M guests from Sydney, Neil and Kate.

Day 7- Wycheproof to Ararat

2010-03-21T02:42:00.000-07:00

Nicks induction into the Weinert Family

Participiants- Josh, Trav, Andrew P, Hamish, Cory, Simon, Scot, Eddie, Nick

Support Crew- Ron, Carmel, Eliza, Bruce, Marg, Ian, Sarah, Melissa, Rose Marie

An interesting nights sleep was had by those who stayed at the Birchip Lawn Tennis Club last night with the aircraft carrier air conditioner that ran for most of the night until we found the off switch, the toilet lights that provided a beacon of light and the local who called Cory's mobile at 10:30pm asking what days the Wycheproof Grain Grazing Festival was on after confusing the MS1000 article (with the number attached to it) with the Grain Grazing Festival article next it. After complaining that he couldn't hear because Cory was speaking too softly and being bluntly told that was because it was 10:30pm and we were all asleep, he quickly apologised but the damage was done. It topped off a great night which included our only night of sleeping on the floor (thank goodness). Earlier in the night we were treated to some Birchip hospitality as the Leisure put on a great spread including a short formal welcome speech and call for donations. Various distant relatives of the Weinert Clan showed up to offer their encouragement and catch up with members of the support crew they had known as children.
The morning came quickly and before we could head back to Wycheproof to begin the long slog to Ararat (168km) there was a small formality that had to take place so we headed back to the centre of town to officially induct Nick in to the Weinert as an honorary cousin. The ceremony performed by Spider (The Don of Brichip) was very moving and both bride (the bull) and groom (Nick) looked the part. Nick was presented with a terry towelling hat (a trademark from the days of our Pop Ted) and recited an oath composed by Spider whilst grasping the oversized appendage of the bull. He rode with extra spin in his pedals knowing that he was now and forever will be a member of the Weinert Family.

By the time we got around to riding it was 8:13am and 70km to Stop 1. We performed as a well oiled cycling machine and stayed together, sharing the the extra load of taking the wind and setting the pace. But as always, good things can only last so long.
We reminded of this most bleakly during the last 42km as the rolling hills of crossing through the Great Dividing Range and the over exuberance of some riders smashed most of us to pieces and made the finish line feel like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. To make the moment even more enjoyable it was also our earliest finish at 5:12pm.

A special mention today must go to Josh, who as one half of the Golden Centurions (with Hamish) tried everything possible to try and get out of riding. First he broke a spoke (which we replaced with a spare wheel) then he pulled all the screws out (he claims they fell out) of his front chain wheel so it fell to pieces but still the persistent little bugger wouldn't give up. The 6 foot 2 Josh jumped on the spare bike, a small giant, and rode like a monkey on a mini bike at the circus until he succumbed to the hills. His 135km, although not the whole way was a mighty effort.

The early finish allowed us an earlier night or an A League Final for those interested and some extra recovery time which we'll need tomorrow as we tackle our last cycling day- a lazy 180km to the beach at Port Campbell. We also had so special visitors who came to thank us and offer their support- more members of the rural MS community. Fred, Ros, Gary, Heather and Ian made an extra effort to come from the surrounding areas to our caravan park to share their stories of MS and their lives. It highlighted the variety of ways people can be affected and the changing nature of the disease over time. Gary will be joining us tomorrow night for the full 100km of the Great Ocean walk in honour of his wife Ros and we are excited to have him. Katie Ballard and Neil both representing the Foundation 5 million from Sydney arrive shortly too and it will be good to be able to link rural Victoria with our charity partner.
Bring on the end of the bike. Start time 8:13am Last bike 5:12pm.

Day 6 - Swan Hill to Wycheproof via Birchip.

2010-03-19T03:19:00.000-07:00

Participants - Scot, Nick, Eddie, Simon, Cory, Andrew and Jeremy.

Support Crew - Carmel, Ron, Eliza, Margaret, Bruce, Gerald, Ian, Kevin and June

Return to the Mother Country today as we headed back to the Mallee with the first day of the bike leg (a lazy 172km). Last night we didn't retire till late because we began the job of repairing the bikes which had been pretty bruised and battered (and covered in dust) over the last 5 days of the kayak leg with the support crew weaving in and out of dusty check points.

What presented itself as a nice change from the uncomfortableness of the kayak quickly became a nightmare as we confronted 25-30 km/h head winds and 35 degree heat.

It was good to have some new conversation in the group with guest appearances by Andrew Prosser and Jeremy (all the way from Sydney). Both boys had never ridden more than 100km in the day before so today was going to be interesting for them and for us to watch their triumph or capitulation.

To spoil the suspense... no wait a bit longer.

Our first break was in Sea Lake after about 70km and we were met by photographers, a front page article in the local paper and a very excited MS sufferer who'd seen the logos on our cycling jerseys and read about our trip in the paper. She shared her experiences of living with MS for the last 18 years and I think that add to the list of hardships of living in the country the fact that you have very limited to specialised medical expertise and support.

We continued on to Birchip by following the beacon of light from the heavens for a very long and well earned rest as we clocked 132km. We rode by the old Weinert house in Fraser St where we spent so much time as kids but the verandah was too small to ride around as we'd done as children.

After icy poles and ice towels we posed towards Wycheproof with the promise of a swim at Tchum Lake on the way home. Thankfully we had to tail wind most of the journey to the finish and were able to get organised as a group and knock off some of the 34kms of the last leg pretty quickly by sitting on 35-38km for the first 15kms. We were soon bought back to reality as we rounded the bend into the strong head wind and it split us to bits.

Very happy to say we all (including Andrew and Jeremy) crossed the finish line and for the record we did the last 34kms in an hour and ten minutes. Not bad after the 130kms that came before it in energy sapping wind.

Tomorrow is another 170km day so we'll see how we pull up in the morning.

Start time : 8.04am
Last bike : 5.26pm

Stay tuned for details of the initiation ceremony that Nick will undergo tomorrow morning in Birchip so that he can become an honorary cousin. Hint - It involves the giant Mallee Bull statue.

Day 5 - Murrabit to Swan Hill

2010-03-18T12:36:00.000-07:00

Participants : Scot, Nick, Eddie, Simon and Cory.

Support Crew : Ron, Carmel, Eliza, Margaret, Bruce and Gerald

Thank goodness, last day of the paddle! We started sprightly at 8.16 this morning after driving in from our overnight accommodation in Koondrook. The whole course today was private property so there was a degree of mystery as to whether the support crew would catch us along the was or we would end up Man vs Wild style needing to drink our own urine and eat raw possum. Luckily the persistent Weinert found a way in although it was 2 hours after we expected.

Along the way today we met a very chatty Mrs Schultz (nee Riley) who gave us the full history of the area and her family's story right back to the 1890's when her father rode a horse from Lancefield to Murrabit in a hurry to try and secure some land.

The story quickly covered the next 100 years of local history according to Mrs Schultz in dispersed with a gaze across the river that caught her attention "Oh wow look at that, gum trees grow so quickly... my father stood in line waiting to buy land..." It was hard to keep a straight face. After about 30 minutes we had let go of the bank (like Leonardo's hand slipping out of Rose's as he sinks into the ocean at the end of Titanic) and let the current drag us slowly away drifting peacefully as Mrs Schultz (nee Riley) waved us of from the bank.

That was a nice break in another long day as Eddie, Simon and Cory chatted to locals and Scot and Nick played Bang Bang to pass the time, shooting birds in the trees with their imaginary guns.

Swan Hill came not soon enough as each boat struggled into the finish line after covering 404km in 5 long days. The first boat scored a massage and the other boats were welcomed by Jeremy (Executive Director of MSRA) who has flown down from Sydney to join us tomorrow. Bring on the bike!

Start time : 8.16am
Last boat : 7.23pm

2010-03-18T04:20:00.000-07:00

Day 4 - Echuca to Torrumbarry

2010-03-17T12:16:00.000-07:00

Breakfast at 6.30 am

The support crew

Participants - Scot, Nick, Eddie, Simon and Cory

Support Crew - Ron, Carmel, Eliza, Margaret, Bruce and Gerald

Touted by Ian as the toughest day because of the 'heavy thick' water we went into Day 4 cautiously even though it was 'only' 64km.

The sun wasn't as hot as there was much more access to shade a cool breeze which helped us concentrate on how sore our butts were! The roll of bubble wrap thrown into the bus came in handy for a bit of MacGyver DIY as we fashioned some back padding, which was not.

For the second day in a row we encounted naked campers (except this time they didn't flee??), although this time it seemed to be only the guy as the lady with him was fully clothed (which was lucky going on popular opinion).

Over the last few days we have been lucky enough to meet lots of people along the way in fishing boats, house boats and on the shore so last night we put our website on a dozen tennis balls so we could throw them out to people to explain what we are doing and even possibly raise some extra money.

Today we got the chance to do that early on with a group of walkers and numerous houseboats along the way. The highlight of these 'row bys' was when we stopped and had a chat for quite a while with an expat American who had moved to Australia to live with his girlfriend. Despite his generous and tempting offer of a beer it was too early in the day's work so we had to decline.

Nick is still planning the demise of Scot after his efforts today to run him over in the kayak failed. Back to the drawing board!

Simon's cricket hat is safe and sound after an almost botched rescue attempt when it went overboard. After three u-turns and missed pick ups the Shane Warne special was rescued and revived.

But without question the highlight of the day were the blueberry muffins fresh from the Beechworth Bakery in Echuca. Mmmmmm.

Start time : 7.56am
Last boat : 6.25pm

Day 3 - Picnic Point to Echuca

2010-03-16T03:12:00.000-07:00

A curious spectator at Morgans Beach

Participants - Cory, Eddie, Simon, Nick & Scot
Support Crew - Gerald, Bruce, Marg, Ron, Carmel & Eliza

After two days in the Kayaks the boys started to get a bit more hardened to the challenge each day. Scot & Nick decided to try out the bigger sea kayak to assist Nick's gluteous maximus issues. It is much heavier and vessel and got a taste of what Simon, Cory and Eddie have to deal with each day.

We switched from muesli bars to bbq shapes and that lifted the morale, and possibly performance.

By lunch time Scot & Nick decided they had had enough of the comfort kayak and switched back to the TK2 (paddle pops). A kayaking 'expert' called it a bath tub, but nick and scot see it as a hot tube time machine.

The water got deeper and therefore got heavier. It was a shorter distance today but we worked very hard. A gut busting last 20km for everyone. Conversation highlights today were: Highest selling albums, One hit wonders and Scot was following Nick's Twitter like updates every two minutes. The course took us past Moira Lake and where the Goulburn River joins the Murray. The banks of the river were more lush, with reeds growing along the whole way. Almost tropical. We had showers at the Echuca YMCA and rewarded ourselves with Pizza for dinner, but don't tell our dietician.

Day 2 - Tocumwal to Picnic Point (96km)

2010-03-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

Participants - Scot, Nick, Eddie, Simon, Cory

Support Crew - Ron, Carmel, Eliza, Margaret, Bruce and Gerald.

Another long, long day. We got out a bit earlier today at 7.45am hoping to finish earlier (so much for that, as the last boats came in at 7.44pm about 45 mins after the TK2).

Access was much more difficult for the support crew today who only caught us at one spot for the day at about 11.30am. Luckily they'd predicted future trouble and loaded us up for the next 8 hours. Lucky for them we also also spotted that one of the bikes had come loose on the trailer and had fallen out within it from all the bumps and jolts of the dirt ride.

There was some interesting scenery today due to the remoteness of our course. We came across a couple who hadn't heard us coming and were enjoying the great outdoors in all their naked glory. They got the fright of their lives to hear a group of male voices coming around the bend and quickly retreated to their tent.

The total kayak part of the trip is 404km and in 2 days we've clocked up almost 200km so we are almost halfway. Looking forward to some shorter distances which hopefully means sore bums and a few less hours in the coming days.

Start time : 7.43am

Last boat : 7.34pm

Day 1 Yarrawonga to Toccumwal by Kayak (96km)

2010-03-14T03:08:00.000-07:00

Day One Participants: Scot, Nick, Eddie, Simon, Cory, Josh and Trav
Day One Support Crew: Ron, Carmel, Eliza, Margy, Bruce, Ian, Gerald

Big first day to get us going -right out of the blocks and into 96km of paddling. We weren't really sure how long it was going to take and we were keen to avoid the night session we encountered a couple of years ago during the MS 4 MS. We were up before the sun and had a photo call with the local newspaper as we set off on a very long day. The time check as we left was 7.37am.

The sun was hot by 9am and we were keeping a pretty good pace, helped out by the recent rain and water being let out from the weir. Scot and Nick 'escaped' in a breakaway early on as it was far easier for them to balance their tk2 kayak with the help of a little speed, and the did a great job to avoid major sunburn and the potential for spills (only one tip over that we know about). Eddie, Simon, Cory, Josh and Trav passed the time by creating extra challenges like limbo under the fallen tree branches in your kayak.

The last 4km seemed to take forever and the final group pulled in to Toccumwal at 7.35pm, breaking the twelve hour mark.

Poor Josh and Trav then had to have a quick feed and shower before driving back to Melbourne to teach in the morning. Sure there will be quality learning going on in those classrooms.

The support crew did a fantastic job and I am sure will continue to do so.

DAY 0

2010-03-12T12:54:00.000-08:00

Well this is it. We got the trailers, the kayaks, the bikes and the brain teasers all packed. Now we head off to sunny Yarrawonga. The weather forecast predicts high 20's all week, and with the massive rain fall last weekend, we could not have asked for better conditions.

We had our story on National Nine News (Melbourne) last night, the story came out fantastic. Cory was the star, especially when he was acting like he was teaching in a class.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us and donated. We are nearing $20,000 but still plenty of time to keep going a lot higher.

Day One tomorrow. It has come around fast. Let's hope we have prepared well.

Proflie - Cory Pearce

2010-02-07T20:26:00.000-08:00

Biggest physical (sporting) accomplishment so far... kicking three goals in an under 12s footy match after having my head split open at a party the night before playing kiss chasy (for the record I was the one being chased). That and completing the whole of the MS4MS in one piece.

I am best at... Staying focused on what we’re trying to achieve and breaking everyone else’s balls to do the same.

Most looking fwd too on the Ms1000... The end and the feeling of accomplishment that comes with finishing each day and getting to $100k. That and all the crap food I’m going to eat without doing any exercise afterwards.

The one thing i wish will happen on the MS1000... We’ll finish the paddle in the dark one night (it’s cool, but we don’t want it to take that long every day)

Who do you think will throw the first tantrum on the MS1000? and what about? Probably me to be honest when things don’t go the way I’ve been picturing them in my head for the last two years. FYI I’ll probably go quiet and be very blunt with people when they ask me a simple question. I should get over it quickly though.

What is your weakness? The fact that I go quiet and get a bit blunt with people when they ask me a simple question. Overheating tends to be an issue due to some sort of diagnosed chronic condition or something, especially when combined with the fact that I haven’t always learnt to pull the pin when I should. I am getting better though Mum.

Your greatest fear for the event... Putting in all the work beforehand and having a relapse a week out and not being able to finish the job. My sense of direction is also likely to be an issue and it could become the MS1378 before we know it.

What should our next challenge be... Been toying with an idea over the last few years of pushing a car to Sydney to highlight the world’s reliance on oil. Shame I’m not enough of a Greenie to have any credibility to do this. The other option is the MAS1000 (Me as a Slackass 1000) where we paint a circle on the floor and put a beanbag in the middle. The challenge is to remain in the circle and survive the challenge of 1000 hours of DVDs, eating $1000 worth of pizza and drinking 1000 shots of coke. Credit must be given to Paul Zoppos who has started a solid preseason for this event as co-creator. We are looking for sponsors, so if you know anyone let me know. Funds raised will go towards repairing the venue for the event after they have to remove a wall to get us out of the building.

An inspiring story

2010-02-03T23:38:00.000-08:00

Amazing results have been achieved in treating Multiple Sclerosis using radical and cutting edge research and techniques. Stories like these about Prue and her son Ben motivate the MS1000 team to raise funds so that further research can be done and treatment results will continue to improve, benefiting not just MS patients but also their families and loved ones. Click this to hear the amazing story of Ben and Prue. It will give you an idea of the sudden and unpredictable impact MS can have on young people and also the benefits research sponsorship can offer.

Profile - Nick Hodder

2010-02-02T15:44:00.001-08:00

Biggest physical (sporting) accomplishment so far...Fly eyes winning the D4 Wednesday night basketball comp at Jordanville 2000

I am best at...Not attending training camps

Most looking fwd too on the Ms1000...Finding out i'm related to everyone else.

The one thing i wish will happen on the MS1000.... Tail winds everyday of the cycle/comfortable bed every night.

Who do you think will throw the first tantrum on the ms1000 and what about....Me, when we are staying in Birchip (home to the famous Mallee Bull) and I can't sleep due to the noise

What is your weakness...Beer/food

Your greatest fear for the event...injury/not raising enough money

What should our next challenge be... MS 10,000

Profile - Simon Hughes

2010-02-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

Biggest physical (sporting) accomplishment so far...getting under 70 kilos

I am best at... talking while riding

Most looking forward too on the Ms1000... the banter and in jokes that will form, and the walk along the beach at the end

The one thing i wish will happen on the MS1000... That we raise a lot of money for Ms research, (and Megan Gale comes along for the ride leg)

Who do you think will throw the first tantrum on the MS1000? and what about? Don't want to name names, what happens on the trip...... lets just say it will be one of my relatives.

What is your weakness... bbq's and probably the kayak leg

Your greatest fear for the event... Injury and not finishing it

What should our next challenge be... To do it again and raise more money

Profile - Scot Edwards

2010-02-01T15:46:00.000-08:00

Biggest physical (sporting) accomplishment so far... shooting a buzzer beater from beyond half court in basketball. yes it was a mixed game, half time and we were 12 points up but i still got it. i almost died from high fiving.

I am best at... daydreaming during rail crossings on a bike.

Most looking fwd too on the Ms1000... going so fast in the kayak that we could water ski behind it

The one thing i wish will happen on the MS1000... A huge wave coming down the murray, a tail wind and a team of masseurs waiting for us every night.

Who do you think will throw the first tantrum on the MS1000? and what about? Me after i drop some ipod speakers into the Murray within 10 minutes of starting.

What is your weakness... Pierce Bronson ad's where he is riding horses on a beach and playing pool. Because he's worth it.

Your greatest fear for the event... Finding out Nick is actually related to us.

What should our next challenge be... to paddle the length of the great ocean road, walk up Victoria and ride up the Murray.

Profile - Andrew Edwards

2009-12-15T01:52:00.000-08:00

Andrew is the 2nd eldest and is now named the old fart, after Ian became gramps.

1. Biggest physical (sporting) accomplishment so far...2 x Murray to Moynes and MS 4 MS

2. I am best at...Leading out the Troops

3. Most looking fwd too on the Ms1000...Seeing Victoria

4. The one thing i wish will happen on the MS1000...Getting my head on TV

5. Who do you think will throw the first tantrum on the MS1000? and what about? No Comment

6. What is your weakness...Chicken Parma skewers

7. Your greatest fear for the event...Getting Money....

8. What should our next challenge be...Finding more quality time to spend with Family

Profile - Ian McLean

2009-11-19T19:42:00.001-08:00

Here is the first of a short Q&A with each of the main participants in the MS1000.

From eldest to youngest, we start with Cousin Ian, or as he likes to be referred to now "Gramps."

1. Biggest physical (sporting) accomplishment so far... Completing the Kokoda track (surviving the trip with 5 women)

2. I am best at... Bringing up the rear!

3. Most looking forward to on the MS1000... Torturing my body, Spending time with my cuz, and seeing the country side.

4. The one thing I wish will happen on the MS1000... We all survive the event and are still talking at the end.

5. Who do you think will throw the first tantrum on the MS1000, and what about... Have to say Nick, because he's not related. Sorry Nick!

6. What is your weakness... Trying to help people.

7. Your greatest fear for the event... Being to old too keep up with the young guns.

8. What should our next challenge be... " TOUR DE FRANCE 2013"

Birchip Training Weekend

2009-11-18T00:05:00.000-08:00

The lads have been busy training - working up our fitness base, but on the weekend it was a real treat. The Weinert boys (Ian, Andrew, Scot, Cory and Simon) (Nick could not make it) went back home, so to speak, to Birchip, the town our mothers and Ian grew up in. Our Uncle Kevin lives there and was more than accommodating with his wife June, and their two dogs - Princess and Chloe. Birchip is a small town of about 800 people, but with the new water pipe now up and running, their local watering hole - Tchum Lake is full and being enjoyed by all.

We were told stories about our Pop and how hard he was, a real inspiration, and I’m sure we will use that memory during the tough times of the MS1000. We rode 142km on Saturday and 88km on Sunday - riding on roads we will be using in March. Here are some photos of a highly enjoyable weekend.

The house our grandparents lived in. It's tiny.

Our fantastic hosts. Kevin (Spider) and June.

The kids enjoying the recently filled Tchum Lake.

The sun rising as we ride toward Wycheproof.

On top of Wycheproof Hill. From left - Scot, Cory, Andrew, Simon & Ian. That’s Ian Ballard’s face on our jerseys. He is the founder of Foundation 5 Million (F5m) our charity partner.

THE COURSE

2009-09-07T05:19:00.001-07:00

Click on map and itinerary for larger view.

INTRODUCTION

2009-09-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

Calling all adventurers to join the MS1000 - a unique 1000km kayaking, cycling and trekking challenge throughout spectacular regional Victoria.

The Ms1000 will take you paddling the Murray River, cycling the length of Victoria and hiking the Great Ocean Walk.

This incredible challenge aims to raise awareness of the most common neurological disability amongst young adults in Australia – Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – and to generate publicity and funds for research into a cure.

100% of funds raised will be directed to Foundation 5 Million (F5M) - MS Research Australia’s community fundraising arm.

The aim is to raise $100,000 and you can be involved.

It's the challenge you have been waiting for.

You can join the MS1000 event for just one day, or complete the whole 10 day journey. But most importantly any sponsorship you can offer will help reach our goal.

CONTACT DETAILS

2009-09-05T17:38:00.000-07:00

To find out more. Send us an email or give us a call. We are more than happy to have a chat about any questions you might have.

cory - (pearce.cory.k@edumail.vic.gov.au or 0431 489 409)

scot - (mr.scotedwards@gmail.com or 0411 288 356)