Studio Twenty staff in Fonthill are looking for cyclists who enjoy long rides as they set-up a team for Ride To Conquer Cancer.
The ride is a two-day, 200-kilometre cycle between Toronto and Niagara, to benefit Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.
It’s long, gruelling and completely beneficial to everyday life for many, says Francis Lanza, who was at the fitness facility over the weekend to inform potential riders of the ride’s background story.
Lanza, who first heard of the ride when at school in Australia, says taking part in it is an overwhelming experience. With bystanders cheering along the route, it’s easy to make a difference in cancer research funding while having fun.
“The actual event where you hear the stories, just brings you to tears, it’s so incredible.”
Two out of five Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Every day more than 520 Canadians are diagnosed and more than 200 will die from the disease.
The ride brings together communities of riders, survivors and their supporters for one common goal: to conquer cancer in this lifetime.
Lanza, like many Canadians, had someone close to her go through the battle. Although she was there for him during the battle, she views the ride as an added bonus to help stop cancer from affecting others.
“Cancer doesn’t discriminate. Everyone has a story.”
Krysta Pratt, owner of Studio Twenty, was contacted by organizers of the ride, asking if she’d like to form a team to do the ride.
Although she has never participated in a ride of that length, she quickly agreed to form a team and start fundraising efforts.
“It’s exciting to be involved in something that helps out so many people,” Pratt said. “This will be a new challenge for me and many on the team, but a challenge that is nothing compared to what those battling cancer are facing.”
Over 5,000 cyclists participated in last year’s ride, helping raise more than $119 million in Ontario alone in the last seven years.
Pratt says the team will start training indoors on the machines before taking it to the pavement once the weather warms up.
She says the 200-kilometre trek may seem intimidating, but the teamwork aspect of the ride will help those on the trip from Toronto to Niagara.
“We’re looking for anyone who would like to join and participate in something so crucial in finding a cure for cancer.”
The 2015 Ride to Conquer Cancer is on June 13-14. Those interested in joining the team, can apply at Studio Twenty or by calling Pratt at 905-892-2920.
