Darren Bratrud cycled past the Vermilion Voice on July 31. Photo Sue Chikie
On August 18 - 19, Vermilion’s Darren Bratrud will be cycling over 200 kilometers in the 2018 Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer. Bratrud’s training has been going well so far; he began in the winter by using an app and a bike stand. “The day after the fair I was not necessarily on my ‘A’ game, but I wanted to get a taste of riding in the heat, and I survived it - riding 125 km. It’s actually easier to ramp up that mileage than I ever expected!” said Bratrud who realized that much to his surprise, his body has adjusted to becoming a cyclist. Bratrud will be riding in memory of his friend, Murray Westman, who passed away on March 24. “I will never forget the love he had for his family and for old tractors and will cherish the memories I had with him curling, farming, going all through the US picking up tractors. I’ll be taking on the majestic Canadian Rockies in solidarity and promise to show that cancer is no match against our conviction to conquer it! Funds raised through The Ride will support breakthrough research, exemplary teaching, and compassionate care at the Alberta Cancer Foundation, a leader in cancer research and treatment,” said Bratrud on his online ride page. Bratrud is grateful that through his fundraising he has had the help of Rusty Stalwick and the Westman family. “They were so engaged and were able to solicit a whole different group of people. Other ride members in the city have found gathering support more difficult, and I believe the generosity in this area is largely because the community knew Murray and me. I’ve loved having the small community backing and have become overwhelmed with the support,” said Bratrud. Donations can be made until the day before the ride at http://www.conquercancer.ca/site/TR/Events/2018v2Alberta?px=4180668&pg=personal&fr_id=1661 to help him reach his goal. During the race, Bratrud will be wearing a polka dot jersey for being one of the first 10 riders to raise over $15,000. “I am looking forward to the ride!” said Bratrud.