More than 1200 cyclists took part in Perth’s MACA Cancer 200 Challenge over the weekend, raising an astonishing $3.47 million for cancer research at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.
Harry Perkins Institute Director, Professor Peter Leedman labelled the event a remarkable success.
“One of my favourite things about this event is the camaraderie,” said Professor Leedman.
“Thousands of riders join together, side by side at the start line, creating a genuine sense of community and this year COVID-19 stopped us gathering together like we usually do.”
Earlier this year the MACA Cancer 200 Ride for Research was transformed into the MACA Cancer 200 Challenge, a personal challenge event that encouraged riders to design their own 200km route over the weekend of 10 and 11 October 2020.
“When we announced that the Ride would have a COVID makeover, we weren’t sure if participants would be as eager to get behind this event and make the incredible difference they have done each year before,” said Prof Leedman.
“Everyone at the Perkins is enormously proud and grateful for the incredible efforts of our riders during this tough year. Your fundraising makes a significant difference to the institute’s research abilities and many driven, talented and capable cancer researchers rely on your support.”
He said donations raised in the Ride would directly fund groundbreaking cancer research at the Perkins Institute, which recently made global news with the discovery that a compound found in bee venom was a powerful anti-cancer agent against certain hard to treat cancers.
Top fundraising team, MACA, who are also the event’s title sponsor, raised almost $1.5 million with their 300 rider strong team.
Team Woodside, an event sponsor, raised more than $180,000 for local cancer research.
Top Community team, Middle Aged Men in Lycra (MAMILS), took the challenge element to new heights and are currently riding a 2200km route from Perth, to Kalgoorlie, to Albany and back.
Next year will be the event’s 10th year and new riders are invited to join in what will be a very special celebration.
To learn more about the event and to make a donation, visit cancer200.org.au
