Ride and Run

What is the cost of the ride/run? 

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In addition to your registration fee ($4,395), you will need to cover your own International flights and any transfers, hotels, meals outside of the tour inclusions. We have a 6 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/run: $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

Do you have payment plans for the tour costs?

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Yes. You can choose to pay in full or set up a monthly payment plan. Please reach out to team@handsgroup.org.au to organise your payment plan.

Is the rider/runner registration fee tax deductible?

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No, the rider/runner registration deposit and balance payment fees are not tax deductible as they are a payment for service.

I already paid the deposit for the ride/run but I won’t be able to join the ride - can I still cancel my registration?

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Yes. We can cancel the registration but there are no refunds on the deposit paid. 

When will I get my riding/running kit?

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Your riding/running kit will be ordered three months prior to the ride/run and this will be distributed along with any additional paid kit the night before we roll out.

What if my riding/running kit doesn't fit?

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We will provide you with the sizing chart and leave the order until the latest date possible so that you can be as accurate with your measurements as possible. If you are unsure, please go up a size, as there are no refunds or exchanges if your kit does not fit. They are personalised with your name so once you have placed your order, that is your final selection.

What happens during ride/run days?

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We look to ride off around 7am each morning and usually are off bikes by 3.30pm-4pm which gives you plenty of time to wash your riding kit, wash yourself and rest up. Each stage is about 25kms on average. There will be some shorter stages and a few slightly longer legs but nothing that can’t be achieved together. There will be maps available each day that provide you with a breakdown of the day.


Runners will have breakfast with the riders from 6:00–6:30am and depart at 6:30am to the day’s start point, with a 45–90 minute drive depending on the day. The run will begin around 8:00am and take 5–6 hours, finishing around 1:00–2:00pm. Water stops are suggested every 7km. For logistics, runners will move as a group, regrouping at each water stop before continuing, similar to the ride, to ensure everyone stays on track.

 

What kind of bike will I be riding?

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Hands Experiences Thailand has a fantastic range of Cannondale Hybrid bikes that are suitable for all shapes and sizes. There are three different sizes and we will collect your weight and height at the time of registration to ensure you have a bike suited to your requirements.

Can I bring my own bike seat and pedals?

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Yes, you can bring your own bike seat and pedals if you choose to clip in for your riding experience. We can assure you that the seats are comfortable and suitable for the multi day touring but if you prefer your own seat that you have been training on then feel free to bring that along and we can attach to your bike.

Can I bring my own bike?

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No. For all of our Thailand experiences we use our own bikes. This ensures an inclusive experience and that you are fully supported with mechanics. .

Do you have e-bikes?

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Yes! E-bikes are available for an additional fee. These are intended to support riders who want a more comfortable experience—not to ride ahead of the group. They’re a great option if you’re concerned about distance or stamina.

How fit do i need to be?

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You don’t need to be an elite cyclist or runner, but you do need to train. Our cyclists have ranged from 18 to 70+ years old — what matters most is time in the saddle. We recommend building up to comfortably completing at least 25 km in a single ride before your tour.

For runners, you should be able to comfortably run at least 7–10 km in a single session and maintain a consistent weekly training routine. Gradually building your endurance and incorporating recovery days, strength training, and longer runs will help ensure you’re ready for the challenge.

I am worried about the distance, can I make it?

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At Hands, we pride ourselves on our experiences being inclusive. We start as a team and finish as a team. There will be faster riders and slower riders but the important thing is that we start and finish together. Support crew will be on the road to provide assistance at both the front and the back to keep the group together. If you do need to rest or sit a leg out, there are support vehicles with amazing drivers who are more than happy to have some company in the car.

What is the best way to get to the hotel from the airport?

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It is the responsibility of the riders to organise their own airport transfers to the hotel. We suggest you head to the ground floor of the airport and take a metered taxi to the hotel. You will need to head to the taxi ticket line to grab a number. Look out for your taxi bay number and wait for your taxi to arrive at your assigned bay. You will need to pay the toll, which is 75 baht, and it will be expected you will have that in cash for the driver. Cost of the cab ride should be no more than 500 baht. Just a reminder you are not able to use your credit card in taxis. You can get Thai currency from the airport when you arrive.

What airport do I fly in and out of?

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You will need to fly into Bangkok (BKK) on or before 16th May. Our departure at the end of the trip is from Phuket (HKT) airport on 24th May. If you’d like to arrive earlier or extend your stay, our team can assist with booking accommodation at the same hotels the group will be using.

Can I bring partners / supporters to follow the team on the bike ride journey?

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There is limited accommodation along the way and we don’t want to be rejecting riders in place for supporters. You can invite your supporters to the end of the ride where they can watch you ride in and join in the celebrations. Email team@handsgroup.org.au to chat about the options.

Is travel insurance compulsory? Do you have a recommended travel insurance company?

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Travel insurance is compulsory for all Riders. Below are some recommended travel insurance providers. Be sure to check your Health Insurance provider as many offer travel insurance.

Project Crew

What is the cost and fundraising target for the Project Crew?

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Registration Fee (Adult): $1500

Registration Fee (Child): $750

Fundraising Minimum: Adult = $1500, unless you are the partner of a rider/runner, in which case the fundraising requirement is waived. 

Children on the Project Crew = no fundraising requirement

How to i pay for my balance and fee for my kid/s?

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Your Project Crew balance can be paid via invoice, and our team will contact you to arrange payment. If you would like to set up a monthly payment plan, please email team@handsgroup.org.au and we’ll assist you.

What is the name of hotel we are staying in Khao Lak?

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For Accommodation, we'll be staying at the Pullman in Khao Lak. Khao Lak is 1.5 hours drive from Phuket International Airport. 

Please email team@handsgroup.org.au to get your group code for the booking.

What airport do I fly in and out of?

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For flights, you have two options: You can either fly into Bangkok and then get a domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket, or you can fly directly into Phuket. You can organise a car transfer from the airport to the hotel through the hotel. 

When will the project start?

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Participants will be required to make their own way to the Pullman Hotel Khao Lak to arrive on 17th May ready to commence the program on 18th May.

On the evening of 17th May, we’ll be hosting a welcome dinner at the Pullman Hotel. This will be a wonderful opportunity to meet and connect with your fellow Project Crew members, share excitement for the upcoming event, and kick off the experience together in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Hands can recommend flights/transfers, but all flights/transfers are to be organised by individuals at their own expense.

How will the project run and is it suitable for my children?

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The program requires people to exercise some flexibility as daily activities will really depend on general group consensus, as well as the needs of the home and its children.

Overall, it is a very relaxed program.

We believe this tour is suitable for children aged 10+, however we are happy to discuss this with you if you would like to bring younger children. Please get in touch with us per the details provided below.

How will I stay in touch with my Project Crew before the ride?

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About a month before the ride, we’ll create a WhatsApp group for your entire Project Crew. This will be the best place to connect with your teammates, ask questions, share updates, and get excited together as the event approaches.

Do I need a Working with Children Check?

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Yes, all participants are required to have a valid Working with Children Check before departure. If you’ve completed one in recent years, you won’t need to apply again. If you’re new to the program, we recommend obtaining your check as soon as possible and sending us a copy once it’s issued. This check is free for volunteers and is issued through your state government.

Fundraising

Is Fundraising Compulsory?

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Yes. By fundraising a minimum of $5,000 for your ride/run experience, you provide 170 children in our care with access to basic necessities, healthcare and education. Importantly, you are providing them with a life of choice. 

Fundraising Minimum Project Crew: Adult = $1500, unless you are the partner of a rider/runner, in which case the fundraising requirement is waived. 
Children on the Project Crew = no fundraising requirement

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@handsgroup.org.au

Where can I find resources to help me share the story with my network or at my fundraising event?

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We have a dedicated page with fundraising tips and useful resources to help you in the lead up to your experience with us.

How do child sponsorship credits works?

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If you are sponsoring one of our kids, 100% of funds paid towards your child sponsorship can be credited to your fundraising total.  If you sign up now and pay the full $1200 for the year then you can have the full amount as a credit. If you signed up for a monthly $100 payment then you would be eligible for the amount paid up till the credit.

Where do I deposit cash donations?

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Any direct deposit donations go into the following account with an email to be sent to Jenny - jenny.tuntevski@handsgroup.org.au to cross reference and allocate it against your fundraising.

Bank: Bendigo Bank
BSB: 633-000
Account Number: 203 568 373
SWIFT Code: BENDAU3B
Name: Hands Across The Water Australia