Next month, riders from around the world will unite for a day of cycling in memory of a local hero and cycling enthusiast, Tony Gove who passed away from prostate cancer earlier this year.
People from far and wide are invited to join the movement - Tour de Tony - a cycling challenge which calls on people to challenge themselves to ride between 20km and 200km on October 15, 2022 to raise vital funds for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
Shannan Gove, Tony's son, who is also an avid cyclist is one of the driving forces behind Tour de Tony, and is confident that the fundraiser will ensure that his dad's legacy lives on.
"Dad meant so much to so many, so for us Tour de Tony is a great way to honour his memory," he said.
"A beacon of positivity, dad was one of the fittest and healthiest guys you'd ever meet but unfortunately prostate cancer doesn't discriminate, and he lost his brave battle earlier this year.
"Throughout his treatment, including, 22 rounds of chemotherapy and being in a lot of pain, dad conquered both physical and mental mountains - pursuing his love of cycling right up until the end.
"We want to honour his legacy and raise awareness of prostate cancer so that other families don't have to go through what we have."
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with more than 24,000 men expected to be diagnosed this year alone.
Tour de Tony invites people from all walks of life - young and old - to participant. They can do so by registering to ride as a fundraiser or by donating directly at https://tour-de-tony.blackbaud-sites.com.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia CEO Anne Savage commended the Shannan and his family for making a difference.
"In Australia, 1 in 5 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime - that's our dads, sons, brothers and mates," Ms Savage said.
"With the help on the community, we can raise vital funds for life-saving research and support services to help end the pain of prostate cancer.
"Five-year survival rates for prostate cancer have increased drastically over the past 30 years and are now at 95 per cent - but we still have a long way to go, and we won't stop until we get there.
"Please get behind Tour de Tony and show your support for all men impacted by this disease - and ensure Tony's legacy lives on."
