Farewell challenge
MCDONALD’S OWNERS TO PASS ON BATON
Shepparton and Mooroopna McDonald’s restaurant owners Karen and Doug Pearse will once again be the major sponsor for Challenge Shepparton and the McDonald’s triKids event.
‘‘We think it’s a community event that showcases what makes Shepparton great, and it is so important for young ones to participate in sport and get out in the fresh air and sunshine,’’ Mrs Pearse said.
McDonald’s has supported the event for the past seven years, providing an opportunity for children aged seven to nine years, and 10 to 15 years, to tackle a swim, bike and run course around Victoria Park Lake in Shepparton.
‘‘Karen and Doug are long-time sponsors of McDonald’s triKids and without them our event would not be as big a success as it is today,’’ event co-ordinator Liz Connick said.
But the announcement is bittersweet for the Pearses, who are leaving Shepparton to live in Melbourne and be closer to their children and grandchildren.
‘‘We’ve been here for nine years as licensees of McDonald’s and it is sad to go because we’ve had a great time,’’ Mrs Pearse said.
‘‘It’s been a big part of our journey, growing the business from two stores with 134 employees to more than 400 crew nowadays, and we’ve loved supporting the community.’’
New licensee Tully Lyster will take over ownership from the Pearses in September and said he would continue to support Challenge Shepparton and triKids, and build on local relationships with sporting clubs and community groups.
‘‘I’ve got a young family and am passionate about sport so I will be looking to support all local groups at the grassroots level, businesses and the council,’’ Mr Lyster said.
‘‘I compete in triathlons, I’ve finished six ironmans and have won the Shepparton half marathon so am heavily involved and passionate about it.’’
Mr Lyster runs the Wangaratta, Cobram, and Yarrawonga McDonald’s stores and says his children will compete in the McDonald’s triKids event in November.
‘‘My sons Kai, 12, and Levi, 9, will compete in the local event and I have plans to compete in the Challenge Shepparton event next year,’’ he said. ● The McDonald’s triKids event will be held in Shepparton on Saturday, November 12. To register, visit www.sheppartonmultisportfestival .com.au