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More than 3,600 cyclists will hit the roads of Brisbane, Logan and the Gold Coast on Sunday (23rd) to raise money for cancer services, research and equipment at Mater hospitals.
The giant field of riders in the 100km Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer will start rolling out of South Brisbane from 5.45am, before turning onto the South East Busway for a traffic-free VIP ride out of Brisbane.
Grey Street and Russell Street in South Brisbane will be closed from 3.00am to 8.00am to allow the cyclists a smooth start to the ride, while one lane of the Gold Coast Highway between Marine Parade and North Street will be closed from 7.30am to 11.00am as the pack arrives at Southport.
The finish line is at Fisherman’s Lawn in the Broadwater Parklands.
As well as amateur cyclists, the field will include Mater cancer researchers, clinicians and riders whose lives have been impacted by cancer.
Construction manager and father-of-three Richard Ford lost both of his parents to brain cancer and is on track to raise more than $20,000 for Mater Foundation by participating this year’s ride.
"It's never easy losing a loved one,” he said.
"The donations coming in have been incredible. I've had many work colleagues and friends get behind me and it means a lot."
The cyclists will be led out of Grey Street will by two sporting greats – ex-Brisbane Bronco Corey Oates and former Olympic cyclist Kate Bates.
Ms Bates, a Commonwealth Games gold medallist, said the event was close to her heart with two of her family members currently receiving treatment for cancer at Mater.
“Unfortunately, both my aunt and mother-in-law are fighting a very aggressive form of bile duct cancer,” Ms Bates said.
“Thankfully, they are both getting the best treatment possible at Mater, but it will be a long road ahead for them.
“Although I ride in the Brisbane to Gold Coast most years, this one will be a personal quest for me.”
The event is aiming to raise more than $750,000 to support cancer services at Mater’s 13 Queensland hospitals, as well as cancer research studies and clinical trials led by Mater Research.
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said every dollar raised by the Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer would support cancer patients.
“Every little bit makes a significant difference towards vital life-saving research and equipment at Mater, helping secure better outcomes for patients now and into the future,” said Mr Thomas.
“Around 450 people are diagnosed with cancer every day in Australia, and this is a small way to show support to those going through some of the hardest days of their lives.
“It’s an incredible sight to see cancer survivors, family members, specialists and researchers all riding together for a cause.”
For more information go to: bnetogc.org.au
