Why am I riding across the country: It's all about the kids; about leading by example; about doing something meaningful with the time we have here.

Where: I'm from Acton, Ontario.



Bio: Its been a long time since I began cycling, some 27+ years, and I still feel the thrill of being on the bike. For me it’s like a time warp to my childhood when I use to cycle all day to far off villages with my buddies and just show up at home in time for dinner.

I started down the road of "giving back" several years ago by participating in local MS Rides. At first it was a means to push my boundaries and after a few years, grew into a way of helping others while enjoying my childhood passion - cycling.

In 2006 my close friends’ youngest daughter, Amelia, fell seriously ill with what would later be diagnosed as cancer of the brain stem. Amelia's fight was bold and she became known to family and friends as Amazing Amelia. Amelia eventually lost her fight with cancer, though her battle somehow touched me in ways I will likely never truly understand [though am forever grateful for]. In small part it was the fact that Amelia was the same age as my daughter Emma. I cannot not imagine being the one hearing that my child had cancer, it was hard enough seeing it happen to friends. Being a passionate cyclist the logical place for me to reach out and give back was with Tour For Kids, a cycling based event that challenges you physically and more importantly allows you to connect with your community in a truly meaningful way. In 2007 I rode my first Tour For Kids as the solo member of Team Amazing Amelia. Eight hundred and fifty or so kilometers later I was sold on where my energies would go.

In 2008 and 2009 we [Team Amazing Amelia] blossomed to 14 team members. Some of which have had their lives touched somehow by cancer, each and every one of them understands the need to help these children living with and beyond cancer. Throughout this journey, my wife Lori and my 2 children Liam and Emma have been there and been a part of all of this. You see I believe that to do great things, it takes the company of great people; both to inspire you and support you.

Today my drive to help others has been indistinguishably fused with cycling. The two have become one.

During the first Sears National Kids Cancer Ride in 2008 I began dreaming of the chance to ride across the country. For each rider it is a large undertaking and not entirely a physical one though that is undoubtedly part of the draw for me. There is the commitment to the endless hours of training and preparation. The fundraising where you reach out and engage your community. Underlying the whole journey is being an ambassador for these kids and being privileged to help; both in spreading the word and raising much needed funds. In 2010 that dream will become a reality; one that would not be possible without the support of my family, friends and sponsors.