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Campbell River man’s journey begins Friday

Jacob Koomen departs Campbell River this week for his cross-country cycle trip for cancer
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Avid cyclist Jacob Koomen is making the final preparations for his cross-country cycle tour in support of cancer research.

Koomen departs Campbell River from Spirit Square between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. this Friday and he invites the community to come down and see him off.

The 69-year-old will be cycling solo, but his wife, acting as his support crew, will be following behind at all times pulling a tiny trailer that will be the couple’s home away from home for the summer.

Koomen is riding under the banner of the Ride2Survive – a single day, 400-kilometre ride from Kelowna to Delta to raise money for cancer research.

Koomen has cycled in the event for the past five years but this year decided to push himself even further and tackle the entire country. All proceeds raised in support of his ride will go to the Canadian Cancer Society. Koomen intends to tackle, on average, 125 kilometres a day, weather dependent.

Koomen said he’s prepared for some rough conditions, particularly through northern Ontario where black flies and mosquitoes can be a nuisance. Then there’s the threat from strong winds and horseflies through the Prairies.

But Koomen said that pales in comparison to what the people he’s riding for have gone through.

“I’m doing it for the people who are dealing with cancer right now and hopefully with what I’m doing, there will be a cure for them,” Koomen said.

To follow along with Koomen’s progress or donate to the cause visit, cycle4cancer.wordpress.com