BAINBRIDGE – Obliteride riders are coming to Bainbridge Island for the first time on Saturday, Aug. 9, working to raise funds to help Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center “obliterate” cancer.

“About a hundred riders will depart Seattle on the 7:55 a.m. ferry,” said event spokeswoman Kerri Kazarba Schneider.

“We’re hoping people will come out and cheer on the riders who are working hard to raise money for Fred Hutch. We encourage people to make signs cheering on the riders and honoring loved ones impacted by cancer,” she said.

The annual fundraiser will begin with a kickoff party at Gas Works Park Friday, Aug. 8.

“We’re urging people to come join the fun and cheer us on as we ride through your community,” said Amy Lavin, Obliteride’s executive director. “Even better, come ride with us! There’s still time to sign up. The 25-mile route is a beautiful ride along Lake Washington and is perfect for beginners. Our three other routes offer options for more experienced riders.”

According to Obliteride, half of all men and one in three women will get cancer in their lifetime.

“Together as a community we can fight back,” Lavin said. “We’re so fortunate to have Fred Hutch right here in our backyard. Giving to local research is the best investment you can make because it helps ensure when someone you know gets cancer, they’ll have the best doctors, researchers and care available right here.”

In its inaugural year, Obliteride 2013 raised nearly $2 million for lifesaving cancer research at Fred Hutch. With the community’s help, organizers hope to raise even more this year.

People interested in participating can still sign up to ride or donate.

Riders have until Sept. 30 to fundraise. Thanks to Obliteride’s generous sponsors, including University Village, every dollar raised supports lifesaving cancer research at Fred Hutch.

For more information, visit www.obliteride.org.