Orillia’s Kerry Zelkovich is riding in the Great Cycle Challenge to help fight children's cancer.
Last year Zelkovich participated in the event that takes place all across North America during the month of August. The event benefits the cancer centre at SickKids Hospital in Toronto.
“I wasn’t working and there wasn’t much to do in the pandemic, so when I saw the ad for it, I thought that it would be kind of neat,” Zelkovich explained.
“I haven’t really biked much in 30 years, so I thought let’s give it a try. I really enjoyed it; it was good.”
Last year Zelkovich’s cycling journey raised $703 from the support of community donors. This year he is hoping to raise $2,000.
“As a grandpa, I’m very fortunate to have a couple of grandkids who are healthy, but unfortunately, there are people out there who aren’t as lucky,” he said.
“Kids should be able to go ride bikes, go swimming, and play sports instead of being stuck in a hospital bed with tubes in their bodies.”
Zelkovich says as a parent and grandparent, helping a child in need is meaningful to him. He also says the cause hits close to home for him.
“My dad passed away from cancer; it took him pretty quick. So, I thought it would be nice to do a tribute to him as well.”
Last year Zelkovich did 305 kilometres for the month of August; this year he is challenging himself to complete 350 kilometres on his bike.
“I’ve been training almost every second day. I plan on doing between 20 and 25 kilometres minimum every time I go,” he said.
To donate to Zelkovich’s campaign, click here.
Zelkovich is also looking for beer can and wine bottle donations. He would be happy to pick them up anywhere in the Orillia area, and donations can be arranged through email at [email protected]
