Alani Cockshutt, NCAS Cyclist has just achieved what many of us would never consider – climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest on her bike.
And all for a great cause close to heart. Alani herself a survivor of cancer, she’s put her legs to work for the Starlight Foundation.
Last Sunday, Alani battled over 10,000 meters worth of elevation at home in Port Macquarie on app Zwift – a training app for cyclists. Only 9,000 others worldwide have completed this event, in real life or virtually. Alani took on the challenge with friend Monty and her mum Melinda. Melinda climbed to Mt Everest and left Alani and Monty to go further and finish 10,000m of elevation.
With this extraordinary effort, Alani and Monty are now able to claim the title of the youngest ever duo to successfully finish a V-Everest. The event included 245 kilometres and 14 hours of riding.
Alani, Monty and Melinda during one of many climbs
Milestones of elevation climbed included Mount Kosciuszko, Mount Fuji, Mount Kilimanjaro, and then Everest Base Camp.
The best part for Alani after 14 hours of grueling work, she and Monty raised $12,500 for the Starlight Foundation.
Alani on the fundraising success, “We aimed to raise $10,000 so smashing that goal was crazy,”
“Mum also raised $5,000 for Tour de Cure, we are a very proud family this week.”
In NCAS Cycling Head Coach, Aaron Virieux’s opinion, “Pretty amazing if you ask me, she’s come a long way from the girl going through chemo, then to turn around and raise over 10 grand to give back.”
Well done Alani and thanks for this week’s inspiration!
Alani has been part of the NCAS Cycling Program for three years, supported by Cycling NSW, Port Macquarie Cycle Club and Coffs Harbour Cycle Club.
Interested in the Cycling Program? Head to our Cycling page and leave your details.
