Family and friends of Simone Montgomerie are preparing for the ride of a lifetime, saddling up for a 3010 kilometre cycle to celebrate the life of the late jockey.

The fundraising event, Cycling for Simone, will see a group of Simone’s loved ones ride from her home town of Streaky Bay in South Australia to Darwin, where she tragically died almost three years ago. The journey will take 26 days – one day for each year of Simone’s life, starting on Monday July 4 and arriving at Fannie Bay Racecourse, Darwin on Friday 29 July prior to the Darwin Cup.

The ride is the brainchild of Simone’s father, former leading trainer Peter Montgomerie, with 100% of proceeds from the ride being donated at the National Jockeys Trust. “The National Jockeys Trust and the industry as a whole came together to provide Kodah and our family with amazing support following Simone’s death,” Peter Montgomerie said. “We wanted to be able to give something back to the Trust and for the families and loved ones of other riders who are seriously injured or killed.” “A bike ride from Simone’s home town of Streaky Bay to Darwin seems a fitting way we can do this – a big job – but something we can do to help, celebrate Simone’s life and make a difference at the same time!” In a major boost, the start of the Cycling for Simone ride in Streaky Bay, will play host to the opening leg of the Emirates Melbourne Cup Tour.

Following the ride is easy – check out the website – www.cyclingforsimone.com – follow@cycling4simone on Twitter and like the Facebook page @simoneslegacy for the latest news, updates and details on how to help or donate.