Nine-year-old boy riding 370 km

Most charity cycling events feature riders older than 40 years old. Yet, there is no deterrent to dampen the spirit of young Nat Bannister who is just nine years old. Nat is participating in the three-day Pedaling for Parkinson’s ride in Parry Sound, On. Having already raised $8000 for the cause, his grandfather serves as his inspiration. “When my Dad told me there was a bike ride to help Grandpa, I told him ‘I am totally in.’” Said Nat. His parents likely assumed Nat was eager to sign up for the shorter event. However, when Nat was asked which ride he wanted to do, Nat was quick to say to his Dad, “the longest, of course.”

The Pedalling for Parkinson’s ride raises awareness and research funds for Parkinson’s disease. Currently there is no cure. Since the inaugural event in 2011, the ride has raised $72 000 in two short years. In 2013, through a new collaboration with the Parkinson’s Society of Canada, Pedaling for Parkinson’s is hoping to add to that total. The ride itself is scheduled to run from July 12 to 14, in Perry Sound, Ont.

By all accounts young Nat Bannister has been training hard in the King Township in Ontario ahead of the event. “Wave if you see me training on the roads around King township between now and July,” said Nat.

Information on routes and fundraising can be found on the Pedaling for Parkinson’s website. Also the Parkinson’s Society of Canada provides information on the disease itself.