Renowned long-distance cyclist, Tev Dararith, has set off on an extraordinary mission today: a year-long, 20,000-kilometre cycling odyssey from Cambodia to Europe.

The ambitious expedition aims to generate $250,000 in support of children's hospitals, particularly the Angkor Hospital for Children (AHC), as it marks its 25th anniversary.

Dararith's meticulously planned route, spanning 25 countries, has garnered widespread support from both the Cambodian government and AHC.

At a press conference held on June 3, Minister of Information Neth Pheaktra expressed the Ministry's backing for Dararith's humanitarian endeavours, emphasising Cambodia's commitment to children's rights and welfare.

"I take pride in being Cambodian and spreading awareness of my country through humanitarian efforts," announced Pheaktra. "The fundraising efforts will benefit two hospitals, Kantha Bopha Hospital and Angkor Hospital for Children.”

With six years of experience in deep forest adventure travel in remote areas, Dararith aims to address the lack of hospitals, schools and medical supplies in the country by raising funds to assist Cambodian children.

In 2023, Dararith embarked on a 9,000-kilometre journey across Southeast Asia to raise funds for the hospital. Starting his mission on May 31, Dararith cycled through Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore, aiming to raise $50,000.

Despite facing challenges like bike breakdowns and illness, he remained committed and raised nearly $60,000 by August 26 of that year.

The funds supported AHC, providing healthcare to over 400 children daily regardless of their financial situation. Dararith's efforts gained recognition and support from local and international philanthropists.  

Va Virak, a member of the Board of Directors of AHC, hailed Dararith as a Cambodian hero, especially for children, highlighting the hospital's crucial role in providing care for approximately 3 million children over 25 years.

He said it consults over 100,000 children annually, with an average of about 400 consultations daily.

"Each year, [AHC] allocates approximately $5 million to $6 million for its operations, with roughly 70 per cent sourced from international philanthropy and 30 per cent from local benefactors," said Virak.

Khan Touk, head of public relations at the Kantha Bopha Foundation, underscored the hospital's vital contributions, noting its role in facilitating the births of over 23 million infants since its reopening in 1992.

He further noted, "The hospital annually manages over 8,000 cases of open-heart disease, with a budget ranging from $40 to $45 million. Daily operational expenses amount to approximately $120,000 for both Kantha Bopha Hospital branches in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap."

Despite encountering visa hurdles in Myanmar and Afghanistan, Dararith has been granted an unrestricted visa to travel throughout Europe. He will navigate through Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Turkiye, bypassing Myanmar and Afghanistan by air due to travel restrictions.

Equipped with a high-quality bicycle capable of carrying nearly 100kg of gear, Dararith is prepared for the challenges ahead.

His journey, spanning paved roads, dirt tracks and mountain paths, may last for up to 10 months, with fundraising efforts potentially extending for another year after his return.

"I'll cycle from dawn till dusk, setting up camp and editing videos," Dararith shared. His daily routine will include cycling, content creation and community engagement, with a focus on leveraging social media to draw attention to his cause and inspire donations.

Acknowledging the arduous nature of his journey, Dararith will undertake it solo, recognising its unsuitability for ordinary cyclists.

Beyond a personal feat, Dararith's odyssey symbolises hope for Cambodian children battling severe illnesses like cancer, aiming to effect substantial change through his unwavering determination and humanitarian spirit.