Strength in numbers

In a show of strength, 1343 riders will complete the epic 200 kilometre Rio Tinto Ride to Conquer Cancer finishing at The University of Queensland St Lucia Campus between 12pm and 4pm today.

The 1343 riders raised $4.7 million for vital cancer research at the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR).

“The Rio Tinto Ride to Conquer Cancer received tremendous support from communities throughout Queensland,” said QIMR’s Director Professor Frank Gannon “We are extremely grateful to all the riders and their supporters, the event sponsors, volunteers and crew, and all the encouragement and best wishes we received from members of the community along the ride.

Funds raised from the Ride will support ground-breaking QIMR research into a range of cancers including breast and ovarian cancer, bowel cancer, blood cancers such as leukemia, brain cancer and skin cancers including melanoma.

“The support will have a significant impact on cancer patients through improved diagnostics, prevention and treatment options,” said Professor Gannon.

“Planning is already underway for next year’s event which promised to be even bigger and better. I encourage everyone to register today by visiting www.conquercancer.org.au.”

QIMR scientist and rider Professor David Whiteman spoke to the impact of the Ride. “I feel honoured to ride alongside these inspiring and committed people. Their hard work to raise funds makes a huge impact to my research into the causes of skin cancer – their support will make it possible to improve our identification of at risk patients and help address the growing number of people diagnoses with skin cancers and melanomas every year.”

The second annual Ride to Conquer Cancer benefiting QIMR is already planned for August, 2012. Register by calling 1300 117 433, or online at www.conquercancer.org.au

QIMR gratefully acknowledges event sponsors Rio Tinto, Sunsuper, Ausenco, Scody, Dibbs Barker, VWR, Excel, The Villager, Simon George & Sons, Channel Ten, and Triple M.