Polka Dot Jersey winner at The Ride to Conquer Cancer aiming for new heights

Power fundraiser shares his tips, which start with personal connections to The Ride

Philippe Tremblay January 31, 2017

“A few of my clients have passed away after being diagnosed with cancer. I’ve had to deliver death claims to families,” says Harry Camlasaran, who works in the financial services industry. “It makes you realize, wow, this thing is really out there and I wasn’t taking it so seriously.”

It was through his work that Camlasaran heard about The Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer benefiting Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in 2015. The Ride has helped him not only rediscover cycling, but also raise awareness and funds for a cause he’s now passionate about. “When I heard about the work The Princess Margaret was doing, I thought I should get involved because I know quite a lot of people who have been diagnosed and survived,” Camlasaran explains. Those survivors include Camlasaran’s cousin, who, like many of those diagnosed with cancer, was a healthy and fit individual. More recently, his sister was diagnosed and treated successfully in 2016. His family’s experiences have made Camlasaran look differently at the insurance claim cheques he has sent to cancer patients.

Camlasaran, who lives in Mississauga, Ont., used to cycle recreationally during his teenage years but then stopped. When he committed to participate in the 2015 event, he also rediscovered the joy of riding on two wheels. That first Ride was a test of his endurance, but now cycling keeps him fit year-round.

“Riding alone helps you develop in different ways. You’re outdoors. It gives you time to think and clear your mind,” he explains. “Cycling becomes your own path to awareness. The Ride is doing what it can to create awareness about cancer. People like me create awareness in the people around them by riding.”

To get his colleagues involved, Camlasaran tells them his own story. He says it’s important that more people get involved. With more participants, the more likely treatments can be developed that could help families. Every year his office sends a team to The Ontario Ride that’s bigger than the previous one. “There is camaraderie within the group. We communicate on a different level, share stories and help each other in preparation and training, which create a bond,” he says.

Camlasaran has achieved a particular distinction for his fundraising efforts. In 2015, 2016 and 2017, he was one of the first 10 riders to raise at least $15,000. For each of those milestones, he was awarded a Polka Dot Jersey.

His advice to those who are trying to reach their fundraising goal is to use all their resources, both professional and personal. Another good way is reaching out to people via social media. “You never know who will support you,” he says. “Being sincere in your efforts is also essential to connecting with people and explaining why contributing is important,” he adds.

“We are hoping to raise half a million dollars for the foundation throughout the next seven years,” Camlasaran says about the Desjardins Bolts team, which numbers 18 for 2017. “Physically, I am hoping to stay fit and hope to be able to keep doing it.”

To register for the 2017 Ride to Conquer Cancer, visit conquercancer.ca