Teamwork propelled Randy's Riders across the finish line at the 2017 Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer.
Over the course of two days, Aug. 12 to 13 over 1,500 cyclists made their way from Calgary to Okotoks for the 10th annual Ride to Conquer Cancer.
Local cycling team Randy's Riders were back to take part for the fifth year in a row. Leading up to the event, the group raised $72,741. While they didn't reach their original goal, each rider successfully raised the minimum $2,500 necessary to enter.
“It was definitely a challenging year for fundraising. With the members we had originally, we were setting our goals expecting to reach close to $100,000,” said team leader Darrell MacDonald. “We started with 33 riders and were down to 26 on the day of the ride. If we could have had all of our members there, we probably would have been closer to that goal.”
The race itself presented a few extra challenges of its own. This year, the route was a little different than what the team is used to.
“Day one was a challenging day near the end. They had changed the course, placing three major climbs at the very end of the day. That definitely took a toll on some of our riders,” said MacDonald.
Looking to each other for support, the group kept things light. Cracking jokes at check stops along the course and cheering each other through the tough spots, the team completed the route both days.
Whenever a rider was feeling the burn, a teammate wouldn't be far off ready to provide extra motivation.
“During times like that our team really likes to provide words of encouragement, or maybe even joke around a little. We're not serious riders, we like to make people laugh and take the pressure off by making funny comments,” said MacDonald.
For some riders, teammate interaction provided the extra push needed to gather a second wind. Heading into the event, veterans on the team did everything they could to prepare new riders to cover the nearly 200-kilometre course.
“Heading into such a long ride can be daunting, but they're very clear that it's a ride, not a race. Everyone is very supportive at each of the checkpoints. From a physical standpoint, it definitely becomes manageable with all of the help and support,” said first-time Randy's Rider Levi Ansell.
Each of the 26-cyclists who started the race for Randy's Riders crossed the finish line on day two knowing they were a part of something much bigger.
In total, $6.7 million was raised by participants for the Alberta Cancer Foundation. When all was said and done, Randy's Riders were happy with another successful Ride to Conquer Cancer.
“Overall it was amazing. We couldn't have asked for better weather, and the organization of the event was excellent again. Most importantly our group is knows that the money we raised is going to help with research for a cure, and travel accommodations for people who need treatment,” added MacDonald.
