Almost 4000 cyclists are gearing up to fight cancer in this Sunday’s Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer.
The giant field of riders will complete a 100km course stretching from South Brisbane to the Gold Coast’s Broadwater, with cancer survivors, specialists and researchers among those taking part.
The iconic ride on Sunday 12 October will raise funds to support vital life-saving cancer research, services and equipment at Mater.
Several roads will be closed in South Brisbane from 3am before cyclists leave from Grey Street in waves from 5.30am, heading out of the city on the Southeast Busway.
Melbourne Street, Grey Street, Russell Street and Glenelg Street are expected to reopen to vehicles at around 8am.
This year’s field will include Brisbane Broncos legend Corey Oates, who visited Mater’s South Brisbane health campus ahead of the ride to show his support for cancer clinicians and researchers.
“When you talk to Mater’s cancer researchers, nurses and doctors, it really hits home what this ride is about – saving lives and helping people through the hardest time in their lives,” he said.
“They’re amazing people and I want Queenslanders to raise as much as we can to support them.”
Injury forced Corey, 30, to retire from the NRL a year ago, but he has been back on his exercise bike for months in preparation for the fundraising ride.
“I had a lot of surgery in my career, so the exercise bike was my life. I even bought one off the club,” he said.
“I can belt out 20km pretty easily, but 100km is a different level. I’ve no idea what time I can do – what matters most is raising money to help Mater fight cancer.”
The event has already raised more than $600,000 to fight cancer.
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said every dollar raised by the Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer will support cancer research and services in Queensland.
“Around 450 people are diagnosed with cancer every day in Australia, and this event will power us towards securing better outcomes for patients, making a difference for people now and into the future,” Mr Thomas said.
“The ride is a celebration of cycling and a fantastic way to help Queenslanders fighting cancer.”
For more information go to b2gc.com.au
