Thousands of cyclists are set to celebrate 45 years of riding and making an impact (Tullio)

On Sunday 1 November, thousands of cyclists will take to the scenic route from Sydney to Wollongong for the iconic MS Gong Ride, raising vital funds to support people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). 

Celebrating its 45th year, the MS Gong Ride has become a much-loved fixture on the annual cycling calendar, bringing together riders of all ages and abilities to take on one of NSW’s most spectacular cycling routes while making a difference for people living with MS. 

From casual and social riders to seasoned cyclists, participants will tackle either an 80km journey from Tempe or a 53km route from Engadine, winding through the Royal National Park and over the breathtaking Sea Cliff Bridge to the vibrant finish village at Thomas Dalton Park.   

Since 1981, the MS Gong Ride community has helped raise funds for vital MS services, support and research. Today, more than 37,700 Australians are living with MS, with the disease often diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, a time when many people are building careers, relationships and families. 

“MS is the most common chronic neurological disease affecting young adults. Money raised through the MS Gong Ride will help to support those living with MS and fund critical research. The MS Gong Ride is more than a bike ride; it’s a movement. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of our community. For 45 years, our riders have powered vital services and groundbreaking research. Every dollar raised brings us closer to a cure,” said John Blewonski, CEO of MS Plus. 

Behind every kilometre ridden and every dollar raised is a person whose life has been changed by MS. For Tullio, taking part in the MS Gong Ride is about more than crossing the finish line - it is an opportunity to use his own experience with MS to give back and help make a difference for others.  

“On the day of the ride, whenever I inevitably started feeling tired and my legs were telling me they had had enough, I thought about my dad. I kept saying to myself: This is for you, Dad. 

And, of course, it is also for every person who might benefit, even in some small way, from the money I am able to raise. That is what this ride means to me. It is about trying to help people living with MS by doing something physical that many of them, sadly, may no longer be able to do themselves, no matter how much they would love to.” 

First riding in the MS Gong Ride in 2014, Tullio is now joined by his 14-year-old son, Isaac in team ‘Father & Son vs. MS’. They are riding in memory of Tullio’s father who was diagnosed with MS at age 53 and sadly passed away only 7 years later after MS caused his mobility, coordination, and speech to deteriorate.  

The 2026 MS Gong Ride will once again transform the journey from Sydney to Wollongong into a celebration of community, determination and hope for a future free from MS. Join us today and experience the ride of a lifetime to help fight multiple sclerosis.    

To read more about Tullio’s story visit msgongride.org.au/blog/meet-tullioopens in new tab    

For more information or to donate to support a rider visit msgongride.org.auopens in new tab