Sean Egan crossed the finish line in Ringwood on Sunday 5 October. He had cycled 3,500 km from Perth to Melbourne in 24 days.

Sean’s ride aimed to raise awareness and funds for Huntington’s Disease (HD). Sean rode in honour of his father, John Egan, who died of HD in 2005.

Sean and his family raised over $30,000 for Huntington’s Victoria.  His ride raised a further $20,000 for the other state Associations.

At the finish line, Huntington’s Victoria CEO Ruth Hertan congratulated Sean on his achievement and presented him with a plaque.  

Looking back - by Sean Egan

It's just over two months since I completed my ride from Melbourne to Perth.

How do I feel?

I have an amazing feeling of accomplishment. No matter what happens for the rest of my life, no-one can take the ride and all it has achieved, away from me.

What has it achieved? 

• It's honoured my father's extraordinary life in a manner befitting the man.
• It has given the HD community some hope. I didn't realise that this would happen to such an extent. The response has been mind blowing.
• It has raised awareness for the general community. 
• It has given me a better idea of what I am capable of achieving. Hopefully, this is just the beginning.
• A good amount of money has been raised, which has already begun to help families affected by HD.
• It has helped solidify friendships and brought me closer to family members.

In the first few weeks back, there were a few flat spots. How could normal life compare to what I'd just experienced? Fortunately, the ride has not just stopped. I have been able to speak to several school groups, my Dad's cricket club and the people at the Arthur Preston Centre. I have attended two weddings recently and we have collected over $300 from selling wristbands. Speaking to these groups has made me realise that this is what I would like to do on a more permanent basis. Hopefully some opportunities will develop in the future.

I must talk more fully about what it has done for my relationship with Annabelle. In the weeks leading up to the ride I was slightly worried about how much she would enjoy the journey, especially when I knew that she was well and truly "over" the training and the organisation. It has been all consuming. However, after a few days on the Nullarbor, Annabelle declared that this was indeed a great journey we were embarking on and that she was having the time of her life. She had even suggested that this might not be the only major ride we should do. I already loved her deeply but this made me love her even more.

This Christmas when we remember Dad and wish desperately he was still with us, if I listen hard enough I reckon I might hear him say "Thanks Son - you have done me proud."
Thanks to all those who have donated, wished me well or helped in any way.

Sean Egan

Visit Sean’s website at genepositive.com.au  to read more about the ride.