Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist, has set himself a new challenge when he returns to the field in Mumbai on March the 12th for the IPL (Indian Premier League) season opener between his Deccan Chargers and the Kolkata Knight Riders.
The skillful and affable batsman/wicketkeeper, who captains last year’s titleholders, plans on hitting 25 sixes during this highly competitive series that concludes in late April.
For every time Gilly hits a six, a “gift of wheels” will be donated to a child living with a disability. Amway’s donation of AUD $20,000 will fund 50 bike conversions. The Freedom Wheels initiative is a partnership between Amway and Technical Aid to the Disabled (TAD).
Each bike is specially customised to suit the individual rider’s needs making it a reality for children with disabilities, many for the first time, to enjoy the freedom and pleasure of bike-riding with their friends and family.
“Learning to ride a bike was such a thrill for me as a kid and together with playing cricket is one of my most defining childhood memories. It is one of most fun things about growing up and my three kids are a testament to that. Being able to contribute in this way is very rewarding,” Adam Gilchrist said.
“After last’s year’s turnaround season we are under intense pressure from the other teams who want to knock us off our perch. We are determined to prove it wasn’t just luck. Now my motivation level is even higher as I want as many children as possible to benefit from our success,” he said.
In 2009, Gilchrist might have hit the most sixes (29) and steered his team to a fairytale season ending by taking out the IPL title in South Africa, but it was the 40 bike modifications he contributed to that gave him the most satisfaction and joy.
Amway General Manager Michial Coldwell said: “We are excited about our ongoing relationship with Adam Gilchrist. His continued support and contribution to Freedom Wheels is helping many children.”
Adam Gilchrist is currently in India preparing for the start of the IPL that gets underway next week.
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