Preamble
Finally the big day arrives and all the riders and support crew arrive in Bangkok (location map) in preparation for the massive journey south. First up a “meet and greet” dinner and introductions. Heading up the team, Peter Baines and his “clan” – partner Nicole, dad John, sons Lachlan and Jack and daughter Kelsea. All the way from the UK, Gill and Ian Williams. Gill co-founded Hands and heads up the UK side of the operations. Keen “professional” cyclists – Jerry Pearce, Andrew Bennett, Daniel Murray, Tony Love-Linay, Mike Mitchell, Steph Ellis and Mellisa Ryan. Representing the Queensland contingency the lovely Panagiris family – Craig, Sandra and daughter Katelyn. Film crew Shane McLachlan and son Max and finally yours truly Brigid Gibson and support crew extraordinaire – hubby Andrew. Guest staring Khun Prateep, founder and head of the DPF organisation in Thailand through which Hands works. The room is a-buzz with anticipation, nervous energy and a keen desire to get started…so it’s an early night for all. But not before a HUGE thank you to all our fabulously gernerous sponsors who have helped raise over $A130,000 for the orphanage!!!
