For the first time, the annual Ride to Conquer Cancer started in Niagara-on-the-Lake last Saturday as 400 cyclists pedalled from Peller Estates and traversed 200 kilometres, to Hamilton and back, to raise millions in the fight against cancer.
The Princess Margaret Ride to Conquer Cancer, held June 7 and 8, brought 4,400 cyclists and 550 volunteers to Niagara-on-the-Lake and raised a record $20.61 million for research at Toronto’s Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.
Construction at the usual Niagara Falls finish spurred organizers to find a new space to host the event, said co-founder Steve Merker.
“We were looking at mixing it up, Peller said they’d love to host us, and our riders are thrilled to be here in the heart of wine country,” said Merker, who is also the foundation’s vice-president of corporate and community partnerships.
Merker thanked events staffer Edmark Delmacio for performing “O Canada” and acknowledged the recent political turmoil in the United States.
“In light of the gong show south of the border, hearing our anthem sung so proudly has an extra special meaning,” said Merker.
The money raised this year pushes the ride’s 18-year total to more than $321 million, funding breakthroughs in cancer treatment and diagnosis. Each participant pledged at least $2,500.
About 400 riders tackled the 200-kilometre, two-day “Classic” route that started from Peller Estates and ended at McMaster University in Hamilton on Saturday. They were joined by the 4,000-plus riders trekking from Toronto’s Sherway Gardens.
Then, on Sunday, both groups departed from Hamilton and headed east to Niagara-on-the-Lake, arriving there after five hours.
Team Steve’s Cyclepaths raised $1.05 million this year, pushing its lifetime contribution past $14 million.
“It’s an emotional day, but everyone supports everyone to get to the finish,” said rider Andrea Kraus, who rode Saturday for her brother, a prostate cancer survivor.
David Morrison, who has ridden since the first event 18 years ago, has never missed a start line.
“Which of our families hasn’t faced cancer, so coming back every year is the least I can do,” said Morrison.
Carrie Morris rode her 12th tour six months after preventive surgery revealed stage-zero breast cancer.
“Early detection changed my story completely,” said Morris. “My goal was simply to be here today riding with all of you.”
Peller Estates regional manager Tim Coons said organizers are already discussing a return to NOTL next year.
“Like many Canadians our staff have lost loved ones to cancer, so raising a glass with riders at the line means a lot,” said Coons, adding that the winery “can’t wait to welcome everyone back next year.”
Niagara Regional Police guided rolling closures on John Street, Railroad Street and Concession 1 while cyclists enjoyed warm, haze-free weather.
Before the riders began their five-hour journey, Merker urged spectators to “carry the fire forward” by booking their own cancer screenings and considering a bike seat next June.
“Our sweat is nothing compared to patients’ tears,” he said. “Together, we’re pedalling toward a day when nobody fears that diagnosis.”
