“Today we honour those whose selfless and generous commitments through the past four years have helped make The Enbridge Ride To Conquer Cancer the largest cycling fundraiser in Canada,” said Paul Alofs, President & CEO of The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation. “This monument is our way of thanking everyone involved while commemorating this year’s 5th Annual Ride” he added.
In addition to the monument dedication and unveiling, Alofs was joined by Steve Merker, Chief Cycling Officer, in presenting five Riders with inaugural Gold Helmets for this year’s Ride. The helmets signify the community of Riders who have each participated in The Ride since the inaugural event in 2008.
“I’m incredibly honoured to receive a Gold Helmet for this year’s Ride,” said Chinyere Eni who rides on a modified bike because she lost a limb to cancer as a young child. “For the last four years, I’ve taken this incredible journey because it’s a way for me to remember my nine friends who succumbed to the disease while fighting beside me. I’m thrilled to make this year my 5th”, Eni added.
Funds raised by The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer are used for research, clinical enhancements and survivorship programs at The Princess Margaret, one of the top 5 cancer research centres in the world. Funds raised through this year’s event will contribute to The Foundation’s recently announced Billion Dollar Challenge, which will create and implement Personalized Cancer Medicine at The Princess Margaret.
In 2011, Enbridge became the national title sponsor of The Ride, making it “The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer,” and similar events will take place this summer in Alberta, British Columbia and Quebec. Paul Green, Director of Public & Government Affairs at Enbridge Gas Distribution, addressed attendees, citing the company’s national commitment to The Ride and full support across Canada.
“Enbridge is proud to be part of this momentous occasion as we honour everyone who has generously volunteered their time in making The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer a great success,” said Guy Jarvis, President, Enbridge Gas Distribution. “We’re proud to help The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation in its efforts to conquer cancer in our lifetime through the commitment of volunteers, researchers and the entire community.”
After the presentation and monument unveiling, members of the media and attendees toured The Princess Margaret.
This year’s Ride will take place June 9-10 and participants will cycle over 200k through Toronto and the Ontario countryside. For more information, visit www.conquercancer.ca or call 877.699.2453.