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It took just one trip and he was hooked. John Clout went on his first Kidney Kar Rally in 2010 after having a kidney transplant in 2009.
The next year he took off in his own car, Kar 2009 Xplant, and hasn’t looked back – going every year since.
“It’s a once in a lifetime, bucket list, sort of thing,” he said.
“If you do it one you will do it again. It’s a lot of fun and it’s a challenge.”
To take part each car has to raise a minimum $4500 while the rally itself is an average speed test.
Once they leave it’s “open slather” for John to drive the 4000 kilometres over eight days.
Luckily he’s always enjoyed driving.
“There’s a bit of skill in doing it – trying to judge the times for each course plus the challenge of raising as much money as you can,” John said.
“The fun and good times come along with it.”
The average speed test kicks in when they leave the main roads and take to the rally tracks.
“You’ve got to follow a course a bit like orienteering,” John said.
Kerry Flinn navigates for John and has been driving with him for the past three years.
“I really enjoy it and love raising money,” Kerry said.
“It’s for a good cause, helping local kids with kidney disease.”
In the past the rally has taken them to places like Alice Springs and Bundaberg.
Last year they raised $37,200 and this year their goal is to raise more.
To help John support kids with kidney disease buy a raffle ticket or go to the family gala day on Saturday at the Riverina Marine Centre from 10am to 2pm. There will be plenty of fun and food on offer with two jumping castles, a slushie machine, popcorn machine, fairy floss and coffee.
Money raised goes to supporting kids who are on dialysis and gives them a trip to Queensland with their siblings once a year while their parents have respite.
“Kids from all over Australia go and a few Wagga kids,” John said.
This year’s rally starts is from Goulburn to Queanbeyan via Ballarat.
To donate to the cause online click here.