Image courtesy of Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach.
The 7th Annual Tour of Long Beach, to take place on Saturday, will raise funds for pediatric cancer research at the Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Center (JJCCC) at Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital Long Beach. The clinical research program supports JJCCC’s efforts to prevent, diagnose, treat and potentially find a cure for childhood cancer, according to the release.
“In 2015, JJCCC had 52 open study clinical trials with more than 80 percent of eligible patients enrolled into those studies,” stated Jacqueline Casillas, M.D. M.S.H.S, medical director, JJCCC.
“We have many research accomplishments to be proud of here at Miller Children’s. For example, we were the number one children’s hospital nationwide for enrollment in a supportive care study using acupressure to control nausea and vomiting in children receiving chemotherapy.”
Thousands are expected to attend the biggest cycling event in the city, where fans of the two-wheeled mode of transportation will ride together for five-mile, 30-mile, 62-mile and 100-mile lengths, all designed by former professional cyclist, Long Beach Bike Ambassador and 2000 US Olympian Tony Cruz.
At a bright and early 6:30AM, the first wave of tour participants will push their first pedal forward in downtown Long Beach for the Cruz Gran Fondo, while families and children take off at 8:30AM for the Family Fun Ride. All riders will finish at the Marina Green Park where riders will receive hard-earned medals for their miles.
“I’m proud and honored to have started the Tour of Long Beach charity bicycle ride six years ago with the late great Mark Bixby,” said Cruz in a statement. “This is a fun, family-friendly bike tour and participation helps ensure Miller Children’s can continue to be the valuable institution and community resource for families in and around Long Beach for years to come!”
The Finish Line Festival officially begins at 9:30AM, where celebrants can join Cruz and friends to commemorate a memorable day on the bike. The party boasts a beer garden, live entertainment and music, a free bike valet, vendor village and an area just for kids.
For more information, visit the website here.