This year, we caught up with Khalil Najjar, Principal at Optim Logistics, to find out what keeps drawing him back across the country for the 500km Ride for Sick Kids WA.
With every pedal stroke, riders help ensure families can stay close to their sick children during some of life’s most challenging moments. For Khalil and for Optim that purpose makes every kilometre worthwhile.
You’re travelling over from the east coast to take part in Ride for Sick Kids WA. What about this event makes it worth the journey?
This will be my third time participating, and I can honestly say the flight west gets easier each year.
The friendships formed on the road, the shared ride experience, and the spectacular West Australian countryside all play their part. But above everything else, it’s knowing that the effort makes even a small difference in the lives of families doing it tough. That’s what brings me back.
What are you most looking forward to experiencing over the 500km journey?
In true ride spirit, I’m most looking forward to reconnecting with old friends and welcoming new ones into the peloton. While it’s a 500km ride, it’s the people who make it unforgettable.
Is there something about riding in WA that you’re especially excited about? The landscape, the people, or the purpose?
Why choose just one?
The landscape inspires me.
The people lift me.
The purpose drives me.
Put those three together and it becomes a highlight of my year. 
How does taking part in Ride for Sick Kids WA allow you to contribute in a more meaningful way than other fundraising methods?
It’s easy to write a cheque.
But giving my time and physical effort feels different. It feels earned. It feels shared. It feels like a more fitting way to give.
This is about showing up and riding with heart, not just fundraising.
What does it mean to represent Optim on the bike while riding for such an important cause?
For me, it’s not just about representing a company.
It’s about representing the people who donated to the cause, those who gave generously in my name and in support of Ronald McDonald House Charities. Every kilometre I ride carries their backing, their belief, and their generosity forward.
Why is it important for Optim to stand behind causes like this?
Our philosophy is simple.
Those of us who are able physically and financially should do what we can to support those who aren’t.
Backing initiatives like Ride for Sick Kids WA reflects what we believe at Optim: step up when it matters most.
What do you hope to take away from this experience once the ride is complete?
A Rider of the Day jersey? Perhaps.
But more importantly, the shared accomplishment. The camaraderie. The quiet pride of knowing that together, the peloton has helped WA families stay close to their children during critical times.
That’s something worth riding for.
Moving Heaven & Earth. Together
For Optim, the commitment is simple: if you can help, you should.
And as the 500km unfolds across Western Australia once again, Optim will be riding not just for the challenge, but for the families who need it most.
Because some causes are worth crossing the country for.
