Start your engines: the trip of a lifetime has begun!
Over a decade ago a pivotal meeting took place at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games which changed the course of history for two great Australians. Meeting for the first time, Andrew Cannon AM and Cathy Freeman bonded over their mutual love for all things sport and philanthropy. While no one could have predicted it then, Cathy and Andrew went on to start the Cathy Freeman Foundation and over the past decade have helped change the lives of thousands of Indigenous children through the power of education.
Andrew is never one to dream small. At age 13 he represented Australia in World Cup skiing and went on to compete internationally in rowing, sailing and ultra-marathons. But it is his unbridled love of cars that inspired him to take on one of his greatest challenges - driving 10,000 kms across Australia in a one of a kind 1923 Presentation Vauxhall in an effort to raise much needed funds to support the Cathy Freeman Foundation he co-founded 10 years ago.
"I’m passionate about sport and about education, and I can’t think of anything more important than ensuring that all Australian children have opportunities to thrive at school,” Andrew said of this momentous adventure.
After months of meticulous planning, Andrew started the engine this morning and waved goodbye to his family as he starts his two month journey around Australia.
“Andrew has been with me since day one helping set-up the Foundation on Palm Island," said his friend and co-founder, Cathy Freeman.
"It would not have happened without him. His enthusiasm is contagious and I have no doubt that he will really raise awareness of what we are doing as he comes into contact with thousands of Australians on this incredible journey.”
Andrew will be driving just over 300 kms today in the wind and rain to arrive in Horsham. Over the next week he plans to drive more than 1,000 kms through Adelaide, Port Augusta and Coober Pedy before arriving in Alice Springs on the 17th of August for the infamous Henley on Todd Regatta.
Click here to show your support and donate to this amazing cause: www.cathyfreemandoundation.org.au/10000