Mike Diamond

At age 77, Mike Diamond Rides 115 Kilometres to raise money for The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital

There aren’t too many 77-year-olds who would be ambitious enough to bike 115 kilometres in a day, but that is what Guelph’s Mike Diamond has decided to do on June 26th as a participant in the 3rd Annual Tour de Guelph.

Riding 115 kilometres at any age is no small feat let alone doing it when many his age may be too nervous to even swing their leg over a bicycle seat.

“I just never stopped, that’s the thing,”

replied Mike when asked about his age-defying riding ability.

In fact, on most weeks throughout the summer, Mike will ride close to 150 kilometres. He’s been riding all his life, and it became a summer activity he enjoyed with his wife and children. Then, when he was in his 40s, he was inspired by his eldest daughter and registered for his first triathlon – a sport that includes a swim, bike, then a run. Nowadays, he puts the emphasis on swimming and biking as the running is “a little hard on my joints.”

But why ride the longest distance in the Tour de Guelph? Mike explained that his wife has been undergoing cancer treatment since 2012 at Guelph General Hospital. He described the staff and support as being incredibly dedicated, friendly and kind which has really helped his wife get through this difficult time. When Mike learned of the first Tour de Guelph cycle ride in 2014, with his love of cycling, it seemed like the natural thing to do – to register, ride and raise money for the hospital that treats his wife with such care.

Since that first ride in 2014, Mike has participated every year and has already raised a total of $4,040 for the Guelph General Hospital and Rotary Clubs of Guelph South and Guelph Trillium. In 2015, he was the event’s top fundraiser.

For the 2016 ride, one of Mike’s daughters and a granddaughter will join him. The rest of the family will be cheering them on along the route.  Mike’s goal is to raise another $1,500 and he’s already well on his way to becoming top fundraiser once again.

Tour de Guelph is an Annual event, taking place on the fourth Sunday of June. Visit www.tourdeguelph.ca for more details.