Michael Riley
Michael Riley, Manager of Markville Ford Lincoln in Markham, Ontario, has been taking part in the national charity cycling event — known as the Great Cycle Challenge Canada — since 2021.
The charity is tied to the SickKids Hospital network, one of the world’s top paediatric cancer facilities, and raises funds for childhood cancer research there. Riley said the motto for the cycling challenge is: “Kick Cancer’s Butt. Because kids should be living life, NOT fighting for it.”
“Out of more than 11,000 riders across Canada, I am proud to share that I was this year’s top fundraiser, raising over $66,000,” said Riley.
Through the years, Riley has become both a Champion Rider and an ambassador for the event. “I’ve made it my mission to share the Great Cycle Challenge with as many people as possible, because the more awareness and support we build, the closer we get to changing lives.
In 2023, Riley said his son Ethan was born and around that time, his daughter Emma faced non-cancer related concerns that led to multiple hospital visits over a two-week stretch. “For my wife Jessica and I, it was a frightening experience. That’s when we saw firsthand the incredible level of care that pediatric facilities provide — everything from the dedication of the staff to specialized equipment like hospital cribs that I didn’t even know existed.”
He said his daughter made a full recovery, and a follow-up at SickKids confirmed she was doing well. “Those experiences brought the cause even closer to my heart,” said Riley.
“This challenge has become part of who I am. Every ride, every dollar raised, every story shared is for the kids and families who face battles much harder than mine. Together, we’re proving that when community comes together, we can truly kick cancer’s butt.”
Michael Riley
