Cowgirls swap horses for bikes

Three brave cowgirls are trading their horses for pushbikes in a bid to raise funds for cancer research.

Elise Croft, Bronwyn Hill and Tammy Kinney will attempt to ride the Munda Biddi Trail, a distance of 600km, starting on April 11. They intend to finish the ride within nine days, come rain or shine.

It would be an easy horseback ride for the trio, but the idea of pedalling the distance has led to some nervous training.

“So far, I have got some serious bruises on my body trying to figure out how to ride that kind of terrain,” Elise said.

The 28-year-old Kott Gunning solicitor, who was a former all-round cowgirl roper, said she would be relying on bike riding experience gained in her childhood.

Bronwyn may also be up for a challenge by taking on such a journey, but the 39-year-old said she had dabbled in cross-country jumping on her horse with her “eyes closed at the best of times”.

While the two beginners continue to train hard, Tammy Kinney has shown no fear in taking on another challenging trip via two wheels, as she has done in the past.

The experienced United States rodeo star comes from big Colorado mountain country and, just like her horsemanship, she rides her bike with speed and agility.

The 44-year-old intensive care nurse may also come in handy if any rider was to come in harm’s way.

Tammy said she would tell her mates the tales of when she took on the Kokopelli and Tabeguache trails — if Bronwyn and Elise can keep up.

All three challengers are tough as they come, and they deserve all the support from those who are not so adventurous.

Luckily, their support person, Neil (Nelly), will be on hand to cook up all their energy requirements.

To make a donation, phone Elise on 0429 110 121 or email ecroft@kottgunn.com.au