Eighteen year-old Ellie Young and Paige Field are taking part in the Great Cycle Challenge over the month of October to raise money for children with cancer.

The Lithgow High school students initially took up cycling as a lockdown activity but it has turned out to be much more meaningful.

"I got into it with Paige, we decided to get into riding just something to do and then we saw this fundraising activity and thought we'd give it a shot," Ellie said.

Ellie and Paige are each required to ride a total of 200 kilometres and each have a fundraising goal of $500. Ellie said she had well succeeded her goal, raising $1406 at the time of publishing.

"It makes me feel very proud and so excited because I didn't think I'd get that much," she said.

Ellie said she felt proud to be taking part in a cause to make a difference, even though she didn't personally know anyone who was going through the disease.

"I just wanted to help support those who have it and I thought it would be a great cause to get on board with," she said.

She is racking up the kilometres with Paige, riding almost every day around Lithgow.

"We're mainly riding around town, we've gone up the waterworks, the streets and Hassans Walls," Ellie said.

"I've done it [Hassans] three times in one week, it's a big hill to get up," she said.

She said cycling took a toll on her body but she felt accomplished each time she rode further.

"My thighs hurt the most going up Hassans and the day after it but it's a reflection of going through a bit of pain which is nothing compared to the pain that children with cancer experience," she said.

Ellie wanted to thank those who have donated and supported her in her fundraising adventure.

"It's been a great thing to be a part of and I encourage others to give it a go. Being outside, being active makes you feel better anyway and knowing it's for a good cause is an added bonus," she said.

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