The ANZA member cycling for Cambodia’s children

HIRO4HOPE is committed to giving every child a chance in life

Five years ago, I knew nothing about road bikes. I certainly didn’t know about padded cycling shorts or cleat pedals! I simply wanted to exercise during the pandemic. I bought my first city bike, and a 20km ride felt exhausting, especially in the Singapore heat. But I persisted, upgraded to a fitness bike, and eventually completed my first Singapore Round-the-Island (RTI) ride: 125km in 6.5 hours! Many RTIs and endurance rides (up to 300km) later, I started participating in amateur and semi-professional events like L’Étape Malaysia.

The Cause

Soon, I met people who were challenging themselves on the bike for a good cause, and I decided to join them to help others. HIRO4HOPE is on a mission to break the cycle of poverty and the ongoing impact of HIV in Cambodia – one of the countries still most affected in Southeast Asia. By supporting Hope School in Battambang, the charity helps to change lives. What began with eight orphans taught by monks is now a lifeline for over 200 children. The school provides formula to HIV-positive mums, hot meals for preschoolers, and English, tech, vocational classes, and help with university education for older kids. To keep it all going, HIRO hosts bike rides to raise funds, because every child deserves a chance at a healthy life and education.

Natalia with children from Hope School in Battambang

The Challenge

My first ride took place in October 2023, covering 425km over four days from Mueang Kao in Thailand to Battambang, Cambodia. A year later, in October 2024, the second ride stretched 675km over five days, starting in Pattaya, Thailand, and finishing once again in Battambang.
Learning to ride with a new team and adjusting to peloton dynamics was a huge step out of my comfort zone. And while the distance of the HIRO rides wasn’t new, the true challenge was showing up every day, regardless of how tired I was. I vividly remember Day 4 of my first HIRO ride: my whole body was aching on a demanding climb near Pailin Mountain in Cambodia. I questioned why I was doing it. But I persevered, conquered the hill, and quickly remembered the “why” behind my journey.

The Kids & Team

The most exhilarating moment is always our arrival at Hope School when we’re welcomed with a sea of smiles and cheers of “Welcome!” from the kids and parents. It’s heartwarming to see their appreciation for a group of sweaty, dusty riders. Witnessing the classrooms, the school garden, and the children’s performances reinforces my belief in the tangible impact of every donation – the end result is a changed life for a child, one at a time. I couldn’t have achieved any of this without the incredible HIRO team – those who cheered me on and the organisers working behind the scenes. The rides underscore that cycling is a team sport; with the right team, you can achieve wonders.

The end result is a changed life for a child, one at a time

Riding Into The Future

If you haven’t tried cycling, give it a go! Travelling through the mountains, valleys, and rolling hills of Thailand and Cambodia is a visual delight. Meeting local people and immersing myself in their culture are enriching experiences. Riding around Angkor Wat on my road bike is totally epic, and a departure from the conventional tourist experience! At the end of November, we took on a new route: riding around 750 kilometres over five days, from Ho Chi Minh City to Battambang and on to Siem Reap. This included the Vietnam–Cambodia border crossing in Bavet.

If you’re looking for adventure and a way to give back to those in need, I highly recommend reaching out to the HIRO movement. (Word of caution: it’s hard to say no once you’ve done it!). Together, we can ensure that every penny goes towards providing a brighter future for the children. As a wise friend in Singapore said to me, “I have enough, and I want to share with those in need.” That sentiment is what will always kept me going throughout my journey. Thank you for your generosity and support.

To find out more and to support Natalia head to hiro4hope.com/donations/natalia