Five thousand cyclists have raised more than $564,000 to fight cancer after completing the Brisbane to Gold Coast Cycle for Cancer.

The mammoth field of riders completed a 100km course stretching from South Brisbane to the Gold Coast’s Broadwater, with cancer survivors, specialists and researchers among those taking part.

This year is the first time the event has supported the Mater Foundation, which will use all of the funds raised to support cancer research, services and equipment in Queensland.

Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas thanked the army of cyclists, volunteers, supporters and emergency services personnel for making the “inspirational” event possible.

“The support we have received from Queensland’s cycling community has been incredible,” Mr Thomas said.

“Five thousand cyclists have raised more than $564,000 to fund life-saving cancer research and services.

“This event is not a race, it’s a celebration of cycling and a fantastic way to help others.

“Olympic cyclists, amateur riders and cancer survivors all came together for this inspirational event.

“Everyone at Mater – including our patients – says thank to everyone who has got on their bike to fight cancer.”

Thousands of riders began leaving the South Brisbane starting line at 5.45am today and completed a 100km course ending at Fisherman’s Lawn on the Gold Coast’s Broadwater.

As well as the Brisbane to Gold Coast classic, the Cycle for Cancer also included a 60km course from Logan to the Gold Coast and a 40km Brisbane to Logan course.

Australian cycling legend and triple Olympian Annette Edmondson was among those at the front of the field as it headed across Brisbane, Logan and the northern Gold Coast.

Queenslanders can still support the event at b2gc.com.au