Cyclists register for The Ride To Conquer Cancer

New Zealand cancer survivors and cyclists register for The Ride To Conquer Cancer on national “Gear Up Day”

Two-day, 200 km cycling event will support life-saving cancer research and clinical trials at Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre

Auckland, March 20, 2013 – Cancer supporters and cyclists across New Zealand registered for The Ride To Conquer Cancer today as part of the event’s annual national “Gear Up Day.” The two-day, 200 km cycling event will support life-saving cancer research and clinical trials at the Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre.

“Gear Up Day marks the launch of our first annual Ride To Conquer Cancer here in New Zealand,” said John Loof, CEO of Cancer Society Auckland.

“Cancer is the leading cause of death in New Zealand accounting for 29.4% of all deaths. Funds raised through The Ride will enable the continuity of world-class cancer research programs and clinical trials right here in Auckland. Today, we are calling for all Kiwis to identify a friend, family member or colleague and get them to register for The Ride by calling 09 887 RIDE (7433) or by visiting www.conquercancer.org.nz,” Mr. Loof added.

2013 will be the first Ride to Conquer Cancer in New Zealand. In three years, The Ride raised $26.4 million for cancer-related initiatives across Australia making it the largest fundraising event series in the country’s history.

The annual two-day, 200 km Ride through picturesque New Zealand will draw thousands of participants from across New Zealand and will bring together communities of cancer survivors, cyclists and supporters who will train and fundraise together for months in order to participate.

“My sister Kelly was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma,” said Sarah Obbeek of Auckland.

“She passed away after a hard fought battle. She was only 14. We were very close and it's had a profound impact on my life. I want to make my sister proud and honour her life, battle and her amazing spirit by doing this Ride,” Miss Obbeek added.

The 2013 Ride in Auckland will take place on November 16th & 17th of this year. Kiwis can register or get more information by visiting www.conquercancer.org.nz or calling 09 887 RIDE (7433).

About The Cancer Society Auckland
The Cancer Society is an independent, non-government organisation reliant on donations and bequests and is dedicated to reducing the incidence and impact of cancer in communities through support, information, research and health promotion. 1 in 3 New Zealanders will be affected by cancer. Each year approximately 22,000 people are diagnosed with cancer and around 8,000 die as a result of cancer. For more information, visit www.cancersocietyauckland.org.nz.

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