THUNDER BAY — The Terry Fox National Ride of Hope cycling team is making its way through communities across Ontario from June 20 to July 2.
The team crossed from Manitoba into Ontario on Friday, day 11 of the trek, and they're setting out from Kenora on Saturday.
Terry Fox's brother, Darrell Fox, and his cycling team aim to raise funds for cancer research and pay tribute to the 45th anniversary of the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope.
As of Friday morning, the team had already raised roughly $926,525 — a number that only continued to grow throughout the day.
From Kenora, their route will take them south through the Sioux Narrows and along Highway 11 past Emo, Fort Frances and Atikokan.
If all goes to plan, the team will make a meaningful stop at the Terry Fox memorial on Monday, before continuing through Thunder Bay, keeping south again after Nipigon and following Highway 17 along the north shore through Schreiber, Terrace Bay, Marathon and White River.
To showcase their support for the team's efforts, the OPP is providing a vehicle escort for Fox and his cycling team for the Ontario leg of the cross-Canada journey, according to a press release issued by the police on Thursday.
"The OPP has been a longstanding supporter of the Terry Fox Foundation since the historic Terry Fox Marathon of Hope in 1980, when the OPP provided vehicle escort and assistance as Terry ran across Ontario as part of his Canada-wide run to raise funds for cancer research," said the OPP.
Cycling safety advocate and Provincial Const. Adam Belanger will also be part of Darrell's core team of eight cyclists, cycling with the team for the entire 32-day and 7,000-kilometre cross-Canada ride.
Although there are no planned road closures as the team cycles through Ontario, the OPP asked drivers to be extra vigilant when travelling on roads and in communities where the team is present.
"Drivers should expect an increase in pedestrians and cyclists as they gather, walk and ride on the roadside to show their support for the team," said the police.
The OPP also thanked the motoring public and other road users for their support and cooperation while officers ensure the Ride of Hope cycling team can travel safely and the safety of those who come out to support them.
Those looking to track the location of Fox and his team in real time can visit the team's website.
