SPSC Paddle4Ella 24H Relay Challenge
The Sydney Paddle Surfing Club has been personally touched by the debilitating disease M.E., through the family of one of our paddlers, whose daughter Ella has been suffering from it for several years.
Having seen the devastating effects of this illness on the family, and the amount of support needed from a financial and physical point of view, we aim to make a difference by paddling for 24 hours - nothing compared with what Ella and her family endure every day.
Our goal is to support Ella's family and to raise awareness for M.E., by paddling the longest distance on SUP in a team of 4 in 24 hours, during the Burley Griffin 24H challenge on 28/29 November in Canberra.
Our objective to at least equalize the individual 24H world record on SUP of 193.8kms, set by Bart de Zwart, and break 200kms.
3/4 of your donation will go to Ella's family, and 1/4 to Emerge Australia.
What is M.E.?
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex and disabling disease that affects many parts of the body, including the brain and muscles, as well as the digestive, immune and cardiac systems, among others.
The World Health Organization classifies ME as a neurological disorder. The disease affects men, women and children of all ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds. Around 75-80% of people with the condition are female. And around 25% of people with ME/CFS experience severe symptoms, leaving them housebound or bedbound, like Ella.
About Emerge Australia
Emerge Australia is a national charity providing information, support and advocacy for people living with ME. Their work gives help and hope to more than 250,000 Australians living with the disease.
About the Burley Griffin 24Hr challenge
The Burley Griffin Canoe Club is holding the annual Burley Griffin 24-hour Paddle Challenge on November 28th - 29th. It is the grand finale to the PaddleNSW 2020 Ultramarathon Series.
The event allows paddlers to take on the challenge, solo or as part of a team, to paddle a kayak, canoe, ski or SUP on the Molonglo River in Canberra for a full day and night.
The paddle will no doubt stretch our abilities, but in a fun environment while building some great team spirit.
