Ever wondered how you would fare cycling against an Olympic medallist? Six-time World Champion cyclist and dual Olympic medallist, Franco-American Marion Clignet is challenging you to try and catch her this Sunday (September 25) at the Ride4Epilepsy.

The inaugural Ride4Epilepsy, at Sandown Raceway in Melbourne, aims to encourage understanding and reduce the stigma associated with the country’s most common, chronic, brain disorder and raise funds for the Epilepsy Foundation of Victoria.

Clignet, who was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 22, will be joined by other Olympians, sporting legends, doctors and everyday heroes on the track in a united effort to raise awareness of a disorder that affects one-in-100 (224,000) Australians – epilepsy.

Former St Kilda star, TV personality and head of the Jayco Flyers, Michael Roberts, will MC the Ride4Epilepsy, while Olympic Gold Medallist and former professional racing cyclist, Scott McGrory and veteran cycling champion, John Trevorrow, will commentate the event.

Other elite athletes who may be cycling include former Australian rules footballer and coach and Fox Sports commentator, Danny Frawley, Former AFL starts Paul Tuddenham and David Strooper, retired rugby union player Brian Smith, and Australian V8 Supercar driver and motorsport media personality Cameron McConville.

The Ride4Epilepsy is a fun, entry level and family-friendly cycling event that allows participants and teams to set their own goals while seizing the opportunity to ride alongside experienced riders and share their passion for the sport. The ride is also the perfect final “tune-up” for the Bupa Around the Bay ride, scheduled for three weeks later (October 16).

Prizes and certificates will be awarded for the fastest individual lap, fastest team, and most laps covered by an individual and a team courtesy of various sponsors, including:

– 2 x 1 week use of a Jayco Camper Trailer, valued at $500 each

– 2 x use of a cabin at Nagambie Leisure Park for a 3-day weekend, valued at $300 each

– 2 x Lunch for 2 at Michelton Winery – valued at $140 each

– 10 x GreenEDGE rider packs including riding top, valued at $150 each

– 20 x Lazer helmets, valued at up to $350 each

– 20 pairs of cycling socks, valued at $10 each.

The event will feature track-side entertainment, a Sponsor Expo and a bike education program for younger members of the family.

Entries are still open at www.ride4epilepsy.com.au

What: Recreational bike ride in teams or as an individual

When: September 25, 2011, 8am – 2pm

Where: Sandown Raceway, 591-659 Princes Highway, Springvale, Melbourne

Cost: Adult – $79, Child (under 18) – $59

How: For more information and to register head to www.ride4epilepsy.com.au

Watch Marion’s interview with Michael Tomalaris on SBS’s Cycling Central here.