LBANY, N.Y. (WBEN) "We're in Albany this morning," said WBEN Producer Jim Stelianou just before 7am Wednesday. "We're headed to Utica." The 500+ mile Empire State Ride to end cancer reached the midway point Wednesday.
Riders are enduring the longest ride of the week on Wednesday. A distance of 100 miles to Utica. That's on top of 80 miles Tuesday, 80 on Monday and 60 miles on Sunday.
Stelianou, in his 2nd year with the ESR, said there are a lot of people that have never ridden that distance before. "There's so much camaraderie out here, especially today, to help everybody make it," he said.
On July 24, 220 road warriors started the 550+ mile trek across the state in Staten Island.
Michael Ginestre, Superintendent of Sweet Home Central Schools, is also back for a 2nd tour with the Empire State Ride.
"I'm raising money for cancer research at Roswell Park Cancer Center," said Ginestre. The educator said after having hip surgery a few years ago, he picked up cycling. His cycling partner developed stomach cancer and was treated at Roswell. "He's doing great now. He's cancer free," said Ginestre. We decided to do the ride last year and we're back again this year. It's a great cause with great people and we wouldn't miss it for the world," he added.
Ginestre said Wednesday's triple digit mile number is daunting, but he said they're pushing each other and it's going to feel great going across that finish line.
What's the secret to riding 100 miles in a day? "Stretch, stretch and hydrate," he said.
Empire State Ride
The Empire State Ride is set to conclude Saturday afternoon (July 30), with riders finishing around 4pm in Niagara Falls, N.Y. Riders will cross the finish line along Old Falls Street. The public is encouraged to attend. There will be food trucks, live music and more.
Over a million dollars has been raised so far. Donations to the Empire State Ride benefitting cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center can be made HERE.
