The bike ride is 200 kilometres over two days starting in Toronto and ending in Niagara Falls. Participants will camp one night in Hamilton for a break.

"This year I turn 50 and that gives me reason to think about many things. I am blessed with good health and a happy family. Like many of you, I lead a busy life, earning a living, caring for the house and spending time with the kids," Fredy Wingerter said. "There never seems to be time to volunteer and help others who do not enjoy the same blessings."

The event is benefiting The Princess Margaret Hospital and takes place from June 20-22.

Mr. Wingerter usually bikes recreationally, but has never participated in an event like this before.

"I just wanted to do it. I thought it was a good way to raise money," Mr. Wingerter said. "I never paid attention to things like this before, but I figured I could go in now."

The commute to his work now takes a lot longer, as instead of driving Mr. Wingerter bikes from Ajax to Sheppard and Warden avenues in Scarborough to start pacing himself. â?¨ "I've definitely started training more. The bike ride to work is about an hour and a half each way," he said.â?¨ Even though the required donation amount is $2,500, Mr. Wingerter hopes to raise a personal goal of $5,000.

"I will ride those 200 kilometres knowing that the money donated will help with research to cure this horrible disease that, in some ways, affects everyone we know," Mr. Wingerter said. "I will do the peddling (yes, my legs will hurt), my wife Catherine Bossuyt will run my campaign and you can help by supporting our efforts with a donation." â?¨ As far as Mr. Wingerter is concerned, The Ride is a great way to raise money, and he feels fully prepared to start the long bike journey.â?¨ "Am I ready to bike the 200 kilometres? Yeah, I am ready to do it."

Mr. Wingerter has been personally touched by the devastating effects of cancer through a few of his friends. Through The Ride he hopes to give something back to the community.â?¨ "I have friends who have won the battle and others who have lost the battle. I want to help improve everyone's chances of survival," Mr. Wingerter said.

To help Mr. Wingerter reach his donation goal, visit www.conquercancer.ca to make a donation online or call 416-815-RIDE (7433).