Cyclists from all over the region hopped on their bikes Sunday for the annual The Ride fundraiser for cancer research.
More than 500 cyclists and 300 volunteers helped raise more than $1.31 million for the Ottawa Hospital, bringing the event's seven year total to more than $11 million.
"To see so many people dedicate themselves, not just to this one day event but to months of training and fundraising is exceptional," said Tim Kluke, the President and CEO of The Ottawa Hospital Foundation.
"The money raised through THE RIDE is going to help revolutionize cancer research, improve treatment and hopefully very soon help us find a cure for this disease that affects so many people.”
This year's event featured a 50 kilometer and a 108 kilometer route through the city. Both started at Tunney's Pasture, with the 108 kilometer finishing at Wesley Clover Parks.
Elyse McCann entered the ride with her mother's husband in mind.
"My mother's husband was diagnosed last year and it was a big wake up call for the entire family," she said. "I know I'm not alone. There are millions of people affected, so this year was extra special for me to do a little more to help."
The Ride was cancelled in 2015 because of weather and was cut short in 2014 after 40-year-old Laurie Strano was struck and killed by a truck along the route. Since that fatal crash, the event has been re-named and re-routed with added safety measures in place. There is now one guide for every eight riders, as well as over 30 officers on motorcycles along the route.
"I think it's an important ride for the community," said Dr. Jason Pantarotto, the head of Radiology at the Ottawa Hospital.
- CTV Ottawa