"(I was) joined by friends and colleagues of Citigroup and Colonial First State (for the ride)," Poidevin said.

"At age 47 this is as big a challenge as playing the All Blacks. I thought it would be a nice way to promote the race by doing it myself and a few of the boys jumped in to help me out."

Another former Wallaby, Warwick Waugh, joined Poidevin for the ride, and at 6 foot 7 inches, Poidevin said he made an excellent wind break.

"Thanks to the Citigroup Employees, Colonial State First Employees and numerous clients of Citigroup it has been possible to raise these much needed funds," Simon Poidevin said.

"We also showed that this can be done not just by professional riders, but us 'grinders' can also get out and have some fun."

Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Paul Stephenson flagged the "Struggle Street Seven" off at 6.30am and the team used the same race route that the elite field used to compete on the Sunday.

"Simon has been a fantastic race ambassador, and it has been a privilege to work with him," race committee member Paul Hillbrick said.

"Up until last week we had raised $20,000 but in the last week it went up to $30,000, half of which will go to the Kids of Macarthur Health Foundation, and the other half to go to Goulburn's Palliative Care and Oncology Support Unit."

The charities behind Poidevin's drive have been very happy with the response.

"We are delighted that our charity, Goulburn Community Palliative Care and Oncology Support Group (formerly St John of God Community Palliative Care and Oncology Support Group) has been chosen by Simon Poidevin for his charity ride," Sue Hannan said.

"It will have been a extremely successful ride by Simon. Along with his team they will have exceeded our expectations," said Paul Sinclair of the Macarthur Health Service.

"The funds will be put to immediate use for much needed equipment in the paediatric wards of the Macarthur Health Service."

The charity ride did not start smoothly for the group, with the seven having three flat tyres in 30km.

The group are still collecting donations for the race. To make a donation, send your contribution to: Goulburn to Sydney Cycle Classic, c/o Michael Gleeson, 3 Thompson Place, Camden 2570.