July 25/12 10:46 am - Cyclists have met their match: Ride for Karen provides challenging route and heart-felt experience

Posted by Editoress on 07/25/12
 

On Sunday, September 9th, 2012, hundreds of Ontario cyclists will congregate at St. Joan of Arc High School in Maple to take part in The Ride for Karen, an annual cycling event that benefits children with cancer, and is considered by many cyclists as one of the best century rides in the country. The ride features four events including: the 160km & 100km “Century & Metric Century Ride”, a 25km Family Fun Ride, and a Kids Fun Ride for children ages two – 12 years old.  For more information on the ride or to sign-up, visit: www.rideforkaren.com

Supported by cycling clubs across Ontario and sponsored by Scotiabank, the Ride for Karen is an annual charity bike ride held as a tribute to the life and legacy of Karen Tobias.  Shortly after Karen Tobias passed away after a five-year battle with breast cancer in 2002, Kirk and Kris went for a long ride with some friends.  Avid cyclists, the brothers left that day for some air and a refreshed perspective.  What they came back with was an idea.  Now in its 11th year, the Ride for Karen raised over $1.6 million to help send children with cancer to camp.

Taking place in the valleys and farmlands north of Toronto (including Vaughan, Caledon and Simcoe), the century ride is a challenging undertaking, even for a seasoned cyclist.  But participants look forward to the challenge, as well as the opportunity to ride through the Caldeon Highlands and the Holland Marsh each and every year.  Participants agree that it is a ride – not a race – and thanks to the three different pace groups, there is a place for seasoned riders and beginners alike.

Hundreds of riders now take part in the ride – many are riding for a mother, a brother, or a child lost to cancer.  Others are riding for themselves.  The will power of these participants to come together and do something positive after such a traumatic experience is inspiring, and adds to the heartwarming feel of this unique cycling event.

To learn more about the Ride for Karen and to register for one of the four events please visit www.rideforkaren.com.  You can also follow Ride for Karen on Twitter @RideForKaren.