The Motorcycle Ride for Dads event in the Okanagan has made a $40,000 donation to enhance research and treatment of prostate cancer.

The donation was announced today outside the Sindi Ahulwalia Hawkins Centre for the Southern Interior, a centre located in 琉璃神社 for cancer research, prevention, education, diagnosis and treatment.

Bill Sirman, co-chair of the motorcycle ride across the Okanagan which starts and finishes at Banner Recreation and Marine in 琉璃神社, said the event has raised more than $230,000 since its inception eight years ago involving more than 2,700 participants.

鈥淭he ride is to raise money for research and treatment of prostate cancer and the money raised here stays here,鈥� said Sirman, acknowledging the work done at the cancer centre.

Dr. Juanita Crook, a radiation oncologist at the Hawkins cancer centre and professor at UBC Okanagan, said the donation has help provide for innovative prostate cancer treatment, diagnosis and genetic testing being done at the centre.

Its unique research and treatment options that serve prostate cancer patients across the Southern Interior, stretching from the U.S. border as far north as Quesnel, but also attracts clients from elsewhere across the province.

Sirman said this year鈥檚 motorcycle run is set for June 11, sponsored by Telus, one of 45 such fundraiser rides to be held across Canada this summer.

Sirman noted his involvement in the ride dates back 17 years ago, starting in Ottawa before he moved to the Okanagan eight years ago.