The fifth anniversary Ride for Dad takes place in Prince George on Saturday to help raise awareness advocating regular testing for prostate cancer and funding for research.
The Telus-sponsored event starts with registration at 9 a.m. at Kinsmen Community Complex, 777 Kinsmen Place, with kickstands up at 11 a.m. sharp to start the police-escorted hour-long ride, with support from the Ride Captain Doug Jones.
The day's events include the scenic ride, lunch and a poker run.
Because it's an outdoor event, the number of riders seems to be geared toward the weather, said organizer Charles Brunette who started the local Ride for Dad chapter in 2011.
Over the years, there have been 539 riders who have taken part in the Ride for Dad and raised $71,600 for prostate cancer research.
"We're expecting a great turnout on Saturday," said Brunette. "The weather looks good."
The day starts with the parade of bikes at 11 and when riders return to the Kinsmen Community Complex they will have lunch provided by Mr. Mike's and then there's a poker run in the afternoon, with door prizes and awards to follow.
Brunette started the Ride for Dad in 2011 after he lost a coworker and great friend to prostate cancer because the disease was discovered too late.
Early detection is the key and the survivor rate for prostate cancer is 94 per cent when detected early, which inspires Brunette to advocate strongly for regular testing.
"I strongly believe men should be checked on a regular basis for a disease that will affect one in seven men," said Brunette.
Everyone is welcome to come look at the bikes at the Kinsmen Community Complex even if they don't ride.
"We want to convey to everybody that we're all about awareness and research and the money we raise locally stays here in the community," said Brunette.
