The 10th annual Ride presented by Wheaton Precious Metals commenced in Cloverdale, BC on Saturday, August 25, 2018 with 2,500 riders that had raised $10.6 million for the BC Cancer Foundation.
“Over 10 epic years the Ride to Conquer Cancer has been changing outcomes for British Columbians facing cancer. The Ride and its thousands of participants, tens of thousands of donors, gives families hope that together we can conquer this disease. We Ride and raise funds honouring the loved ones we’ve lost and with confidence that we’re giving the incredible scientists and clinicians at BC Cancer the power to save lives," said Sarah Roth, President and CEO, BC Cancer Foundation.
"We have been amazed by the Ride’s impact in 10 years and thank all riders, donors, crew, volunteers, sponsors and supporters for your commitment and contribution as we pedal to break down cancer and change the outcome,” added Roth.
The annual event sees thousands of cancer survivors, cyclists and supporters come together to participate in the two-day, over 200-kilometre journey. New to 2018 and for the first-time in the Ride’s 10-year history, an all-BC route, which offered participants a cycling experience through the scenic Fraser Valley and welcomed first-time local participants and partners.
"On Saturday morning, Sarah Roth and I looked out over the sea of bike helmets lined up at the start. It is truly inspiring to realize that all these riders are raising money to support our work. As you talk to individual riders, including cancer survivors, you realize that everyone has been touched by cancer in some way and has a personal reason to ride," said Dr. Malcolm Moore, President, BC Cancer.
Sarah Roth and Dr. Malcolm Moore during the 10th Annual Ride to Conquer Cancer.
"Everyone who participated would confirm how meaningful, and how much fun, the ride weekend is. It brings together tens of thousands of British Columbians as riders, volunteers and donors for the common cause of conquering cancer. Thank you to all of you who supported the ride this year. In the end, we faced quite a bit of rain, but nothing could dampen our spirits and enthusiasm," added Dr. Moore.
“My daughter Emma was diagnosed with brain cancer in July of 2016 at the age of three. There are no words to describe the impact that a cancer diagnosis can have on a person but seeing a loved one going through it, seemed even worse to me,” said Adam Radziminski, second-year Rider from Burnaby, BC.
“A few months later she was discharged from the hospital only to be re-diagnosed six months later. She lost her battle to cancer in the spring of 2018. Despite the hardships of the traumatic experience, my wife and I continue to carry-on for our son and in the memory of our lovely daughter who even on the worst days kept smiling. Emma and I shared a love for biking and her joy seeing me crossing the finish line of my first ride in 2017 will forever stay with me. My Ride journey began and will continue in order to make a positive impact in the lives of others and to honour my daughter Emma who will continue to inspire me with her courage and unbreakable spirit in the fight against cancer,” concluded Radziminski.
The 11th annual Ride will take place August 24 and 25, 2019 and encourages people of all athletic abilities to participate. To register for the 11th annual Ride visit www.conquercancer.ca/ or call (888) 771-BIKE.
