Over $8,200 was raised during the third annual Recreational Opportunities for Children (ROC) cyclathon.

Executive Director Moni Loewen says the route for both the 100km ride and family ride looked a little different this year to improved safety measures for participants. The 20 people who took part in the family ride cycled at L.A. Barkman Park around Abe's Hill and Bush Farm Trail while the 12 100km cyclists ride started at La Broquerie Lumber Rona and then went east along Highway 52 just past Woodridge and back. Loewen notes four cyclists completed 10kms, one completed 50kms, two went far at 80kms and five went the entire 100kms.

Loewen adds it was encouraging to have people come and participate in the event to support the work ROC does each day with children and their families in the Southeast.

"We really encourage our ROC kids to be brave and try things. We're so grateful for people who are willing to be brave out here, it's a long route and to try something. There are some very energetic, brave folks out here to help show our kids, our ROC kids, that they can be brave too."

Stephanie Gerbrandt cycled 80kms after having her baby boy only four weeks ago. Gerbrandt says it was nice to have an event in Hanover and it was great to be able to support local children.

"We want kids to get more active too and a lot of people can't afford it or just don't have the resources or don't know where to go. For me, myself, a few years ago I wouldn't have known where to go or that we had something like this."

She says the ride was a lot harder due to recently giving birth, adding she otherwise would have gone the entire 100kms.

'From at risk to resilient' is a phrase Loewen says they have been using lately and is excited to have the funds raised continue to inspire children in the Southeast and bring confidence and joy to their life.