Bunbury man Ashley Griggs proud of conquering 340km ride for Parkinson’s research

A marathon ride from Albany to Bunbury has come to an end, with a local man feeling a strong sense of pride in what he has accomplished in the name of charity.

Ashley Griggs completed his 340km ride between the two regional towns on Sunday, raising money for the Shake It Up Foundation and support research to find a cure for Parkinson’s Disease.

After being inspired to take on the challenge by his grandfather, who had been suffering from the effects of Parkinson’s Disease for a number of years, Mr Griggs rode into The Rose Hotel to the sound of cheers and an ovation from his supporters.

“It’s the biggest sense of relief that I’ve made it,” Mr Griggs told the Bunbury Herald.

“There were times where I didn’t feel like I was going to get there.

“It was pretty testing in terms of the conditions but I’m relieved and really thankful for the turnout and the money raised along the way.”

Mr Griggs credited his support crew of his father and best mate for keeping his head in the game along the way.

“They kept me focused and they enjoyed it,” he said.

“They had a laugh and they kept me laughing and I’m sure they have a huge amount of pride for what we’ve achieved as a group.

“I’m sure we’ll remember it for a long time.”

Prior to starting the ride from Albany, Mr Griggs had raised around $12,000.

Following the conclusion of the ride and the Shake It Up fundraising sundowner at The Rose Hotel which featured silent auctions, live music and proceeds from drink purchases also being donated, it is understood Mr Griggs had raised more than $20,000.

“I’m really confident that we’d get somewhere between $22,000 and $25,000 but anything now is a bonus,” Mr Griggs said.