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Former Olympic cyclist Kate Bates and retired Brisbane Broncos legend Corey Oates will be leading the pack in this year’s Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer.
Tickets are on sale now for the iconic 100km ride on Sunday 23 August, which raises funds to support vital life-saving cancer research, services and equipment at Mater.
For Ms Bates, a Commonwealth Games gold medallist, it’s a cause close to her heart, with two family members currently receiving treatment for bile duct cancer at Mater.
“Unfortunately, both my aunt and mother-in-law are fighting a very aggressive form of bile duct cancer called cholangiocarcinoma,” 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, and I’ve set myself a fundraising goal of $5,000.”
Corey Oates will be in the saddle beside her, and has just started training for the event, with regular rides after finishing his breakfast radio shift.
“Although 100km is a hard slog, it’s nothing compared to what people with cancer are going through,” Mr Oates said.
“Everyone knows someone who has been impacted by cancer, and if we can help raise money for research and services, we can hopefully help save lives.”
More than 4,500 riders are set to hit the streets this August with the goal of raising $750,000 for Mater cancer care and research.
Cyclists start the 100km ride at Grey St, South Brisbane, before turning into the South East Busway, giving cyclists a traffic-free VIP ride out of Brisbane.
There will be rest stops at Eagleby and Coomera State Schools, with the finish line at Fisherman’s Lawn on the Gold Coast’s stunning Broadwater Parklands.
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas is thrilled that two sporting icons, Corey and Kate, are supporting the Brisbane to Gold Coast this year.
“We are thrilled to have two of Queensland’s greatest athletes leading the way on this inspirational ride,” Mr Thomas said.
materfoundation.org.au
“The money they raise along with all the other riders, will have a huge impact in supporting ground-breaking research, clinical trials and the purchase of life-saving equipment.”
Riders must be 18+ to enter, but 16 and 17-year-olds can participate with parental consent.
