For the last two years Hale School boys have been running laps of the school oval, drinking slushies, watching DVDs, shaving their heads and eating BBQs for lunch, (not all at the same time), to raise money for their chosen school charity- Ride Aid.
Ride Aid is a voluntary organisation dedicated to giving communities in Cambodia a sporting chance. President of Ride Aid Frank Surgener is the brains and muscle behind the operation. Frank says “Our mission is to contribute to the fight against poverty through education, health care and welfare. During the harsh times of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia all social and educational fabric was destroyed. We aim to build ten new schools in Cambodia.” During this year the opening of the
“Hale” middle school in a small village two hours out of Phnom Phen, gave 12 Hale boys and Headmaster, Mr Stuart Meade, the opportunity to go to Cambodia to see the culmination of their hard work first hand. This middle school caters for poor local village children and comprises two large classrooms and equipment. All subsequent money raised will go towards much needed ongoing school supplies for the children.
With the makings of a tough economic climate in 2009, it was going to be a difficult challenge for the boys to raise over their 2008 mark of $14 000. With the help of enthusiastic marathon runner and cerebral palsy sufferer Daryl Howe, the Year 8 cohort raised $16, 412.30 at the Lapathon alone.
Captain of School Alex Ninkov was very proud to hand Frank Surgener and Daryl Howe a cheque for $40, 426.39 for Ride Aid for the last 2
years of hard work from the Hale students - eating, drinking and running for charity!
