The Northern Cancer Foundation (NCF) held its 12th annual Prostate Cancer “Rally for Dad” (formerly known as the “Motorcycle Ride for Dad”) over the weekend underneath the sunny skies of Sudbury.

Close to 200 riders from across the region came out to the Northeast Cancer Centre on Saturday morning to raise money for local prostate cancer research.

Approximately $36,000 in pledges and donations were collected, bringing the total amount raised over the event history to just over $310,000.

Jean-Claude Denis, a prostate cancer survivor and event committee member, said the event is a special one for him.

“I really look forward to this run. It’s well organized and it supports the work of the talented cancer researchers in Sudbury; they’re the ones that give us all hope.”

The “Rally for Dad” event is a major fundraiser for the Foundation. With monies raised from past rallies, the Foundation recently awarded Dr. Michael Conlon, a researcher at the Northeast Cancer Centre, with an $80,000 grant to help further his studies on prostate cancer.

“Researchers need to raise funds to support their research, and our research is expensive,” Conlon said. “We are grateful to the NCF for their support, and truly thank them for their investment in us.”

Tannys Laughren, executive director of the NCF, said she is thrilled with the results.

“Today was a great day for our riders and we appreciate the fact that they chose to spend it with us. We are overjoyed at the response from the community and surrounding area.”

The event benefits the NCF and their mandate to support the work of the Northeast Cancer Centre in Sudbury. One-hundred per cent of the funds remain in Northeastern Ontario to advance the fight against prostate cancer through research, educational programs and patient care.

In addition to the 120-kilometre ride through Greater Sudbury, the day included a barbecue hosted by The Shop-Harley Davidson, live entertainment by local band Rockburst, and an awards ceremony recognizing the fundraising achievements of the participants. Neil’s Your Independent Grocer acted as the ride’s rest stop where participants could grab refreshments and goodies before heading off on the last leg of the route.

A number of motorcycle groups participate year after year in the ride. The Northern Ontario chapter of the Blue Knights Ontario X spearheaded the event in 2001 and member Bruce Eyre is the organizing committee chairman. In addition, the Canadian Motorcycle Cruisers, Freedom Riders, Harley Owners Group, Southern Cruisers, Chariots of Light, and the Sudbury Wings are regular fixtures on the Ride circuit.

Posted by Arron Pickard