Four-time Central District premiership player Scott Dutschke is riding for a reason in Friday’s BUPA Challenge Tour.
Scott’s uncle Randall Dutschke has been diagnosed with bowel cancer.
The BUPA challenge enables the general public to ride the same route as the Santos Tour Down Under professional cyclists on one stage of the event each year.
This year it is Stage Four, a 138 kilometre run from Norwood to Dutschke’s home town, Tanunda.
As part of the ride, BUPA cyclists have the opportunity to ‘Ride For A Reason’ and raise money for the Cancer Council.
“My uncle has been diagnosed with bowel cancer and my cousin Josh and I decided we’d try to raise some money while showing our support for him,” Scott said.
“We’re a pretty tight family.
“Josh, Randall’s son, has had to move back to Maitland to help with the family business and this ride is my way of helping out.
“I’ve always wanted to try a ride like this, now I’ve got the right motivation.”
Riding as the Dutschke Duo, Scott and Josh have already raised about $6000.
But typical of his relentless approach that has made him a fan favourite with the Bulldogs, he’s keen to remind people they can still donate by going online to the website rideforareason.com.au.
“It’s gonna be a tough ride but we’ve been training pretty hard at places like Norton Summit and Menglers Hill.
“Combined with pre-season training I think I should be okay.”
A serious leg injury wrecked Dutschke’s 2011 season and forced him to sit on the sidelines as Central District went down to the Eagles in the South Australian National Football League grand final.
He hopes the extra work on the bike will pay off once the 2012 football season starts.
“The leg feels really good at the moment,” he said.
“At this stage I’ve got footy training Monday, Wednesday, Friday and training on the bike Tuesdays and Thursdays so it’s been pretty full on.”
Combined with starting his own business, Dutschke Construction, means the former Tanunda junior’s life is pretty hectic.
The Dutschke Duo are looking forward to arriving in Tanunda on Friday morning with the rest of the challenge riders including Eddy Merckx, the man regarded by many as the greatest cyclist of all time.
Central District chief executive officer Kris Grant, is very supportive of Dutschke’s committment.
“It doesn’t surprise me at all that’s Scott’s doing this,” Mr Grant said.
“He’s extremely community minded and a very sincere person and I’m proud of what he is doing.”
Bulldog fans can cheer for Scott and Josh on the route and the person with the best ‘Dutschke Duo’ banner will win a Central District merchandise pack.
Send pictures of your banner to fundraising@cdfc.com.au to be considered for the prize.
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