The Ride To Conquer Cancer – presented by Silver Wheaton – announced 2,104 riders helped raise $9.1 million for the BC Cancer Foundation as the sixth annual Ride wrapped up on the weekend. Funds raised through B.C.'s largest cycling fundraiser support cutting-edge cancer research and enhancements to care at the BC Cancer Agency.
“We are so grateful to this passionate community who helped make the sixth annual Ride To Conquer Cancer a success. Together they are changing the face of cancer in B.C.,” said Douglas Nelson, president and CEO of the BC Cancer Foundation.
“Over 24,000 British Columbians will be diagnosed with cancer this year. Thank you for stepping up to create a strong momentum to raise funds for cancer research that is improving the lives of patients and families across the province," Nelsaon added. "The $9.1 million raised this year is already powering world-class cancer research programs which are advancing our understanding of the disease and pointing to new, more effective ways for prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment."
Since 2009, the Ride To Conquer Cancer raised more than $59.1 million for the BC Cancer Foundation and to date is the largest cycling fundraiser in the province. The annual event draws thousands of participants who are supported by hundreds of crew and volunteers and brings together communities of cancer survivors, cyclists and supporters who train and fundraise in order to participate in the two-day, 200-kilometre ride between Vancouver and Seattle.
“At the age of 26, I heard the words ‘you have cancer’ and it was the worst thing I have ever heard,” said Eamonn Conrad, a third-year rider from Vancouver.
“Thankfully, through amazing research, I was able to overcome Ewings Sarcoma and today I am cancer-free. I am back in the ride, as this is a life-changing event for myself and for all the people it helps. This is the first time I can honestly say I owe my life to something and taking part in the Ride to Conquer Cancer is my way of saying thanks to everyone involved,” Conrad added.
For the first time in B.C. the ride featured two finish lines. On Sunday, riders chose to finish their 200-km journey in Seattle or back in Vancouver. Also new this year is the involvement of Silver Wheaton as the event’s presenting sponsor. Silver Wheaton is a B.C. company and long-time supporter of cancer research, treatment and care in the province.
"Silver Wheaton has supported the ride with a team for the past five years," said Neil Burns, vice-president of Technical Services at Silver Wheaton.
"This year, our team the 'Silver Bullets' has grown to 28 employees and friends. Each rider has a very personal and moving reason for participating. Our company is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the 2014 Ride To Conquer Cancer, and we are extremely pleased with this year's fundraising for the BC Cancer Agency," Burns said.
Ride organizers released the dates of Aug. 29 and 30 for the 2015 ride, and encourage people of all athletic abilities to register.
For more information, visit www.conquercancer.ca or call 888-771-BIKE to get registered.
Ride organizers expect thousands of British Columbians to attend public cheering stations along the route. For a map of the ride routes, visit www.conquercancer.ca