Money raised

155,782

Total Fundraisers

43

Total Donations

478

Digital Live Home Hug Ride is proudly sponsored by

 

 

“Helping us Peddle Faster for the Kids”.

 

 

How would you like to join the next group of extraordinary real estate professionals on a mission to give our kids the life of choice and opportunities that they deserve?

The Digital Live Ride and Real Estate community have collectively raised over $1.2 million across 5 charity rides in support of Hands Across the Water. Steve Carroll warmly invites YOU to join us in 2025 as we embark on our journey towards the next million-dollar milestone.

Get ready for an incredible adventure as the Digital Live Home Hug Ride returns in February 2025. Prepare to pedal 500km down the Mekong River, passing through picturesque villages in the Isaan Region. This ride promises to immerse you in Thailand's lush green rice fields, offer genuine connections with local villagers, and provide an authentic Thai experience. As you cycle into Baan Home Hug on the final day, emotions will run high as you meet Mae Thiew and the children who you have been riding to support. Home Hug's enchanting aura will capture your heart and soul, making it a place you'll never want to leave. The kids will imprint tiny footprints on your heart, creating an impact like no other.

In 2025, our goal is to bring together a community of compassionate individuals driven by the desire to make a positive impact. Could this be your calling? Join us for this extraordinary journey of a lifetime.

 

Looking for an extra Challenge?

Why not take it a step further and include the 2-day Celebration Ride, extending your journey to cover a remarkable 700km? In Steve’s opinion, this is the most exhilarating and scenic 2 days of the Coastal Ride. He's eager to invite you to join in this experience, especially as we celebrate some significant milestone birthdays and commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Boxing Day Tsunami and Hands Across the Water.

These two days will guide you through the stunning landscapes of Khao Sok National Park, with a visit to Ratchadmara Dam and a stay at a picturesque hotel nestled beneath a magnificent cliff. On the second day, you'll conquer a 4km ascent, followed by a thrilling downhill journey (with a few elephant encounters!) leading you to Wat Yan Yao. This temple holds immense significance in the Hands Across the Water narrative – it's where Peter Baines devoted six months identifying the 5,395 recovered bodies. Your route will then take you to some key Tsunami memorial sites, concluding at the very first home constructed two decades ago for children who lost their parents. As night falls, the kids will throw an extraordinary birthday bash, commemorating all the significant milestones achieved.

Where

Bueng Kan to Yasothon

When

23rd February - 3rd March 2025

Distance

500km in 5 days

Riders

25 amazing humans 

Fundraising

Minimum $5,000 towards the team's fundraising goal

I'm interested   Register Now 

If you would like to participate in the Home Hug Ride PLUS Celebration Ride (700km in 7 days) please register via the button below. 

HOME HUG PLUS CELEBRATION RIDE - 700KM IN 7 DAYS

Itinerary

Day 1

23rd February


Arrive in Thailand and Welcome Dinner around the corner from Novotel

Today you’ll meet your fellow riders for drinks and receive your fresh set of lycra ready for your cycling adventure.
Please note that you will be responsible for booking your own International Flights and airport transfers.

Day 2

24th February

Today we fly to Udon Thani where we will transfer to the start of the ride by coach. The Hands Team will take care of the domestic flight for this part of the trip.

There will be a 3 hour bus ride from the airport to our hotel where we will start riding from the following day. We will also host a ride briefing after setting up our bikes in the afternoon.

Day 3

25th February

Bueng Kan to Ban Phaeng ~ 110km

Today our adventure begins and you’ll see the incredible Mekong for the first time as you cycle down the purpose built pathways. Enjoy the sights and sounds of some of the smaller villages and the cries of hello from the grandmas sitting in their cabanas.

Day 4

26th February

Ban Phaeng to Nakhon Phanom ~ 102km

Today is another 100km day but nothing that can’t be achieved. There are a few highway stretches that are best ridden together to pass the km in a blink of an eye. Then a beautiful riverside finish as we make our way into Nakhom Phanom town ready for our rest day.

Day 5

27th February

    Rest Day

    A much needed rest day after 2 solid days in the saddle. Enjoy a sleep in and a lazy morning by the pool before heading off for a massage and some lunch in the beautiful town of Nakhon Phanom.

    Day 6

    28th February

    Nakhon Phanom to Mukdahan ~ 114km

    Back on the bike for more beautiful scenery and friendly locals as we make our way towards Mukdahan. This is a bigger town in the region and a great place to say goodbye to the Mekong as we start to make our way inland towards Yasothon.

    Day 7

    1st March

    Mukdahan to Amnat Chareon ~ 124km

    Our biggest day on the bike but nothing that can't be achieved together. We start as a team and finish as a team and there’s a fresh cold beer or soft drink at the end to quench your thirst. Mentally this day can be a bit challenging but as we tell everyone, it’s only one more 20km leg on the bike and by this stage in the ride you’ll be feeling stronger than ever!

    Day 8

    2nd March

    Amnat Chareon to Yasothon ~ 82km

    The day you have all been waiting for. Our final ride into Baan Home Hug where you will meet the beautiful kids that you have worked so hard to support. Being a shorter day on the bike, this is a really nice way to finish your epic 500km adventure.

    Day 9

    3rd March

    Breakfast at the hotel then the group will depart from Ubon Ratchathani airoport and will have you back into Bangkok in time for the Australian International flights home. We say goodbye from here as you head back home or onto new destinations.

    The domestic flight to Bangkok is arranged by the Hands Team. You will need to arrange your own International flight or other domestic flights for your trip.

    *Celebration Riders - from Bangkok we will catch a flight to Surat Thani to prepare for the next leg of the ride.

    Day 11

    4th March 

    Today, we're embracing a well-deserved break in Surat Thani. You'll have the freedom to unwind by the pool or take part in an exciting optional tour.

    In the evening, we will come together as a team to share a meal and hand out the Celebration Ride jerseys.

    Day 12

    5th March 

    Surat Thani to Khao Sok ~ 106km

    This is by far one of our most favourite days on the bikes in Thailand. This is a stunning ride to Ratchaprapha Dam before heading into Khao Sok National Park for a cave visit and beautiful hotel stay. This day really does feel like we are riding through Avatar… you have to join us to understand why.

    Day 13

    6th March 

    Khao Sok to Baan Tharn Namchai  68km

    This is it! The day you have worked hard for. We have one final uphill and then it’s downhill to Baan Tharn Namchai and the beautiful kids that you have been riding for. It’s another shorter day on the bike but don’t wish your time away. Soak up the love, the memories, and the joy of being on the bike with a fantastic group of humans.

    Day 14

    7th March 

    Over to you…

    It is time to pat yourself on the back for your hard work and efforts to be here. You’ll be glowing and oozing energy as you kick back for a few days (at your own pace and expense) or make your way back home. The official events might be over but you are welcome to kick back and enjoy some quality time in Thailand.

    What Previous Riders Say

    Our charity ride experiences are consistently ranked 10/10 by our riders! More often than not the experience exceeds our riders expectations. Check out what some of our riders have had to say…

    Fees and Fundraising

    Registration Fee: $3,895 (inclusions below).

    In addition to your registration fee, you will need to contribute to the team fundraising goal by raising a minimum $5,000

    Inclusions

    8 Nights Twin Share Accommodation

    23rd February– 2nd of March 2025 inclusive

    As we travel to some sleepy beachside towns, hotels will be modest in their offering but the locations will be on point. You’ll have a hot shower, a bed to sleep in, and occasionally the WiFi will be good!

     

    Hybrid
    Bike

    Your registration includes a hybrid bike which is a flat bar bicycle with tyres that are thinner than a mountain bike and thicker than a road bike. You have the option to bring your own saddle and pedals if you choose.

    E-Bikes can be offered for an additional surcharge.

     

    Meals and
    Ground Transfers

    All meals excluding lunch on the rest day are covered in your registration. Our team on the ground takes care of breakfast, lunch and dinner on the rides and provides plenty of sustenance throughout the day at the water stops.

     

    Custom
    Cycling Kit

    Your registration includes a customised cycling jersey, bibs and gloves. You will have the opportunity to order additional kit if you choose. You will receive a sizing chart in coming months to help you order the right size kit for the tour.

     

    Travel Bag and
    Team Shirt

    You will receive a Hands Across the Water travel bag for the trip. There is plenty of room in the bag for the tour and additional clothing you might want to bring for holidays pre or post the ride. You will also receive a training shirt to wear during your training and in Thailand. 

     

    Support crew and bike mechanics

    Our rides are run by our very own Hands Experiences Thailand. Nothing is too much trouble for this fantastic crew of people as long as you bring your manners. Our bike mechanics keep everything running tip top during your tour in Thailand.

     

    Individual Fundraising
    Profile

    During the registration process, you will be prompted to set up your fundraising page. You can update this page with your story and share your unique link to start raising funds. The team at Hands are here to support you with ideas so don’t be afraid to ask for help.

     

    Training
    Program

    You will receive a training program that will help prep you for your 500km journey. The key to your training will be time in the saddle as opposed to km’s ridden so even if the weather turns poor, you can get to the local gym or spin class to clock up your hours on the bike. We also have a great series of videos if you are new to cycling or looking for some additional training tips.

     

    5 DAY TOUR COST: AU$3,895

    Your tour cost includes everything that we have outlined above. It does not include International Travel and any additional accommodation or airport transfers that you are responsible for.

    Pay a deposit today of $486.90 then second and subsequent installments begin in February 2024 for 7 months . 

    There is a $500 non refundable deposit included in the tour cost. Your place will not be secure on the ride until we receive full or partial payment.

    Celebration Ride Add-On Cost $1,295

    Following the completion of the 5-day, 500 km ride, you'll have the opportunity to participate in the additional 2-day Coastal Ride. This two day ride will take you through the incredible Khao Sok National Park visiting Ratchadmara Dam and staying in the most beautiful hotel sitting underneath a cliff. The second day of riding will see you accomplish a 4km climb before enjoying the downhill (and elephants) as we head to Wat Yan Yao. 

    If you would like to participate in the Home Hug Ride PLUS Celebration Ride (700km in 7 days) please register via the button below. 

    HOME HUG PLUS CELEBRATION RIDE - 700KM IN 7 DAYS 

    **E bikes are available for this ride at an additional cost - rates upon registration.

    Leaderboard

    Fundraising

    Fundraising can be a little bit daunting but it needn’t be. You see… great fundraisers aren’t born. They are made. Anyone can become a great fundraiser by simply getting out there, sharing their story and implementing some fantastic initiatives to bring in the funds.

    You are required to raise a minimum of $5,000 to contribute to the team total. It might seem like a lot but we are here to help you every step of the way. We’ve got some great ideas below or check out our Resources Page to download our fundraising guide.

    Your own fundraising page

    Selling or purchasing ticket packages to Future of Leadership

    A personal donation

    Holding your own event

    Selling raffle tickets

    FAQs

    What is the Cost ?

    add remove

    In addition to your registration fee ($3,895), you will need to cover your own International flights and any transfers, hotels, meals outside of the tour inclusions. We have a 8 month payment plan or you can choose to pay in full.

    To participate, it is a requirement to raise AU$5,000

    What is the cancellation policy?

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    Cancellation greater than 3 months out from the ride: $500 + any costs already paid

    Cancellation 3 months out: 50% of total registration fee

    Cancellation 2 months out: 75% of total registration fee

    Cancellation 1 month out: 100% of total registration fee

    Is Fundraising Compulsory ?

    add remove

    Yes. By fundraising a minimum of $5,000 for your ride experience, you provide 350 children in our care with access to basic necessities, healthcare and education. Importantly, you are providing them with a life of choice.

    What is the best way to start my fundraising?

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    Getting started can be a bit daunting at first; we always say the first $1,000 is the hardest and then it gets easier. Below are our top 3 tips to get your fundraising dial off zero: 

    1. Your online fundraising page is the most simple and effective way to kick start your fundraising. Update your page with your profile image, a story about why you are fundraising and share directly from your page to kick start those dollars coming in. 
    2. Make a personal donation to your fundraising page. This can help set the tone for your supporters and show your commitment to your experience.  
    3. Download our fundraising guide that includes tips and tricks for planning events, auctions and raffles to help you raise your funds. 

    If you need support please reach out to the team at team@handsacrossthewater.org.au

    So... are you up for the challenge?

    With places strictly limited to 25 people, this amazing once in a lifetime experience is not to be missed.

    Secure your place today via deposit using the checkout below. You'll be talking about this experience for years to come!