Defender Andy Otten will up the ante in his recovery from a knee injury by riding a stage of the Santos Tour Down Under as part of the Beat Cancer Tour in January.
Otten, 25, is five months into his rehabilitation from a knee reconstruction.
The versatile Crow will join new Development Coach Ryan O’Keefe and Head of Football David Noble in completing a one-day, 143-kilometre ride for Cancer Council SA.
Otten said he would be spending much of his Christmas break on the bike.
“I went on my first road ride last week just to get some kilometres into the legs. I think the biggest ride I’ve ever done is about 90 kilometres, so I’ve got some work to do!” Otten said.
“I really enjoy road riding and the Beat Cancer Tour is part of the Tour Down Under, which is a great time in South Australia. I’d love to do one of the TDU courses and tick that off my list, and importantly it’s a great opportunity to raise money for the Cancer Council.”
Otten and Noble have extra motivation to support the cause.
In March, the Crows were rocked by the tragic loss of much-loved strategy coach, Dean Bailey.
Bailey, who was 47, passed away after a brave battle with an aggressive form of cancer.
“Just about everyone has been touched by cancer in some way. Sadly, the Adelaide Football Club was affected by the loss of ‘Bails’, who was a huge part of our Club,” Otten said.
“This ride is a great chance for us to raise some money and awareness for a great cause and one that is close to all of our hearts.”
You can donate to our Beat Cancer Ride team here.
Otten, O’Keefe, Noble and Crows Senior Projects Consultant Nathan Godfrey will ride Stage Three of the Tour Down Under on Thursday, January 22. The stage starts at the Norwood Town Hill on The Parade and finishes at Paracombe.
The Beat Cancer Tour gives riders an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride the TDU like a pro.
The joint event between Events South Australia and Cancer Council SA, will allow a limited group of (up to) 30 riders, take part in every stage as a united peloton to raise awareness in the fight to beat cancer. In 2015, the Beat Cancer Tour will also offer three-day and one-day experiences so everyone can get involved. The 2015 Santos Tour Down Under will be staged from January 17 to January 25. To express your interest today, or to find out more, visit beatcancertour.com.au.
The Crows will raise money for the cause through several fundraising activities.
