The two-week long ‘Great Ride for Heart 2010’ fundraising initiative by a team of 25 well-known cardiologists and health professionals is largely aimed at raising $1 million for the Cardiovascular Research Fund of the National Heart Foundation.

The funds will be used for not only creating increased awareness about heart health, but also for setting up a research centre, as well as appointing a professor of cardiovascular heart health at the University of Auckland.

Out on a 14-day cycle tour across New Zealand, from Cape Reinga to Bluff, the participants intend finishing their 2117km ride on February 14.

While the cyclist-participants will bear their own expenses, every cent raised will fund the foundation’s efforts; and money donated will correspond dollar for dollar thanks to The Douglas Trust charity.

With only three days into the cycling tour, Norman Sharpe, the foundation’s medical director, has stated that the ride can be described as the Heart Foundation’s most successful fundraising event thus far - with the $1 million goal already been achieved!

Meanwhile, noting that heart disease is one of the most common health problems that New Zealanders face in the present times, one of the riders, Jerry Wilkins – an Otago University associate professor of cardiology – said: “A Health professional's biggest concern right now is the increase in the numbers of young people developing coronary disease.”