Warringah MP Tony Abbott impresses in StreetWork fundraiser at Mosman Fitness First

FORMER prime minister Tony Abbott got on his bike in Mosman to support charity StreetWork as a warm-up to his annual Pollie Pedal fundraiser ride.

Member for Warringah Tony Abbott and StreetWork ambassadors Michael Lynch and Tani Ruckle in the fundraiser spin class in Mosman Fitness First Platinum last week, which was a warm-up to the annual Pollie Pedal. Picture: Adam Yip

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PARLIAMENTARY duties called him away last year but nothing stopped Tony Abbott from getting on his bike — albeit a stationary one — for charity in the lead-up to next month’s Pollie Pedal.

Mosman resident and StreetWork ambassador Tani Ruckle led the spin class fundraiser in Mosman Fitness First Platinum last Thursday. The Warringah MP has nominated StreetWork, which helps at-risk youth, as his local beneficiary of the Pollie Pedal.

Tony Abbott in the fundraiser spin class in Mosman last week. Picture: Adam Yip

Ms Ruckle and partner Michael Lynch rode the Pollie Pedal last year. Mr Lynch will participate again but shoulder injuries mean Ms Ruckle will support from the sidelines.

“We are still counting and receiving donations, but we are currently at $2500. Last year the spin class generated $1600, so we are very happy to have exceeded that goal,” she said.

“Tony was actually very, very good. In fact, so good that sitting beside him was one of our long-term members, who is also the president of cycling club BiciSport. Ian Grainger was so impressed with Tony’s riding that he would like to extend an invitation for Tony to ride with the club.”

Ms Ruckle said Mr Abbott expected this year’s ride to be the toughest yet.

Tony Abbott in the fundraiser spin class in Mosman last week. Picture: Adam Yip

“The ride is from Melbourne to Canberra. Michael will do about 100km a day over 10 days,” she said.

“There’s a double crossing at the Alps, so Tony said it will be the hardest year ever. Last year, Michael and I raised $68,000 for StreetWork on the Pollie Pedal, so we would love to exceed that goal this year.”

Ms Ruckle thanked Mr Abbott and Fitness First for their “tremendous support” of StreetWork. She said Mosman Mayor Carolyn Corrigan and local identity Tim James also supported last week’s fundraiser.

Visit streetwork.org.au to support StreetWork. The 21st annual Pollie Pedal starts on Sunday, April 8.

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