Consisting of cancer survivors and people affected by the disease, Team Prince Rupert is preparing for The Ride to Conquer Cancer 2014.
Led by team captain Francis Wolfe, Team Prince Rupert consists of Sandy Giordano, Steven Weir, Tina Cann, Gordie Simonds and Chris Last.
The two-day ride will start in Vancouver on June 14 and, after 200 kilometres, will end in Seattle the following day.
"Crossing the finish line is always emotional," said Giordano.
All riders must raise at least $2,500, with funds collected benefitting the BC Cancer Foundation to support leading clinicians, researchers and scientists aiming to make the world free from cancer.
Each rider has to collect at least $2,500, with Team Prince Rupert raising more than $19,000 so far.
Wolfe, a survivor of both bladder and prostate cancer, and Simonds, a survivor of esophageal cancer, have participated in the ride each year since 2009. Wolfe was once again diagnosed with bladder cancer in February of this year and recently had a tumour removed. But despite having little time to train, Wolfe will still be riding in this year's event.
Giordano decided to join the team two years ago as a way to raise money and help give back to a cause that allowed him to be alive today. Giordano was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2007, and two months ago, was informed he has bladder cancer.
"I just had bladder surgery so I won't be able to participate this year," he said, adding he fully intends to take part in next year's ride.
Cann had previously been on another Prince Rupert Ride to Conquer Cancer team, which won't be taking part in the 2014 ride, with both Weir and Last doing the ride for the first time this year.
"Because of my family history, and Sandy, I signed up for it spontaneously," said Weir.
"I'm looking forward to meeting the people, and experiencing the atmosphere."
Rupertites can donate to Team Prince Rupert's by visiting www.conquercancer.ca or by making donations to any of the team members.
Since its first year in 2009, The Ride to Conquer Cancer has raised more than $218 million.