MANILA, Philippines - On August 1, everyone is invited to bike around the Ortigas-Boni Serrano-EDSA-Conneticut loop to mark the first death anniversary of democracy icon and former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino.

Aptly called "Ride for Cory," the event is a partnership among the Carewell Community, the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation (NCAF), and Rudy Project (Philippines) Inc.

But unlike most biking events which involve competition, this one has no finish line to symbolize its organizers' continuing effort to help persons afflicted with cancer.

It can be recalled that Aquino passed away after suffering from colon cancer for over 17 months.

"Rain or shine on August 1, we'll be there to ride for President Cory and for every Filipino afflicted with cancer," said Robert "Bobbit" Suntay, managing director of the Carewell Community, a non-profit organization that looks after cancer-stricken persons and their loved ones.

Organizers are hoping to enlist at least 2,000 riders who are willing to bring back the Cory magic and help people with cancer.

The event, of course, also provides an opportunity to get fit and to have fun.

"Cancer is not just the sickness of the rich. This is a good first step to create awareness (about Cory and this disease)," said Rapa Lopa, Aquino's nephew.

Among the celebrities invited to take part in the "Ride for Cory" biking event are Eric Santos, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Akiko Thomson and Angel Jacob.

Asked if any of the Aquino siblings will ride their bikes for their mother, Lopa jokingly said, "I think none of them are real bikers." -- Photo by Karen Flores, abs-cbnNEWS.com

Interested cyclists may pre-register for the "Ride for Cory" event in selected Rudy Project outlets for P2,000. Walk-in participants are also welcome for the same fee. For inquiries, contact 0922-851-5144 or 0920-981-5127.

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E-mail the author at karen_flores@abs-cbn.com.